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What is an eye exam?

2026-06-08 07:34:32

Eye exam overview

Eye examination is a medical examination that evaluates eye health through a series of professional methods, aiming to detect vision problems, eye diseases and systemic diseases in the eyes. The main contents includeVision test, intraocular pressure measurement, slit lamp examination, fundus examinationAmong them, vision test and fundus examination are the core items, intraocular pressure measurement is used for glaucoma screening, and slit lamp examination is used to observe the cornea, lens and other structures. The examination process is usually in-depth step by step from basic screening to special diagnosis, and is suitable for people of all ages to conduct regularly.

Core items of eye examination

What is an eye exam?

The first step in an eye exam is usuallyEye chart test, evaluate unaided and corrected visual acuity by identifying characters or graphics of different sizes. followed byComputerized optometry or comprehensive optometry, initially determine refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism).Tonometer measurementScreens for glaucoma risk whileSlit lamp microscopyIt can magnify and observe anterior segment structures such as cornea, iris, and lens, and detect problems such as inflammation and cataracts. Some examinations require dilating drops to dilate the pupils to facilitate more comprehensive observation of the fundus.

Fundus examination and special testing

Fundus examination is a key part of eye examination.direct ophthalmoscopyorfundus photographyAssessing the condition of the retina, optic nerve and blood vessels can lead to early detection of diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. For children or special populations, it may increasecolor vision testorStereoscopic vision examination. In recent years,OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)Technologies such as this can scan the retina in layers and accurately diagnose glaucoma and macular degeneration, becoming standard equipment for high-end examinations.

Applicable groups and frequency of eye examinations

It is recommended that healthy adults undergo a basic eye examination every 1-2 years, and people over 40 years old should increase the frequency of intraocular pressure and fundus examinations. Diabetic patients need to be screened for retinopathy every year, and those with high myopia should regularly monitor fundus changes. Children need to complete the first vision assessment before the age of 3, and re-examination every six months during school age. appearBlurred vision, eye pain, flashing lightsSeek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms. Some examinations, such as corneal topography, visual field examination, etc., need to be selected according to the doctor's recommendation.

The significance and precautions of eye examination

Regular eye examinations can detect more than 80% of preventable blinding diseases early, such as glaucoma and cataracts. You should avoid wearing contact lenses before the examination. Temporary photophobia may occur after the dilated eye examination, so you need to arrange for someone to accompany you. Modern ophthalmic equipment such asZeiss fundus camera,Topcon phoropterImproved inspection accuracy. Examination results must be interpreted by professional physicians and intervention plans should be formulated based on individual circumstances. Do not make any judgments on your own.

Common eye examination equipment and manufacturers
Device typeRepresentative productsManufacturer
OptometreARK-1Nidec
slit lampSL-3GZeiss, Germany
tonometerTX-20Japan Topcon
OCT equipmentCIRRUS HD-OCTCarl Zeiss, USA

Quote sources:1. "Clinical Guidelines for Ophthalmology" of the Chinese Medical Association's Ophthalmology Branch 2. "Report on the Prevention and Treatment of Visual Impairment and Blindness" by the World Health Organization 3. For equipment data, please refer to the technical parameters disclosed on each brand's official website

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