You're Going To Do WHAT To My Eyes???? Part 2

Every time you go to the eye doctor for your yearly eye exam you will go through a few pre-tests before you’re seated in the exam room. One of those tests is called autorefraction. This test checks two things:

1. The first thing it checks is your prescription. While this test is being performed you will see one of a few images- some are of a hot air balloon and some are of a farmhouse. The image will go in and out of focus. From this test we can get a starting point for your prescription and we can work from there to find the best prescription for your eye. Your prescription can be determined without this test, but we do this to help streamline the process.

2. The second part of this test is the keratometer reading. It reads the curvature of your eye and helps the doctor fit the best contacts for your eyes. It also helps the doctor properly correct the astigmatism.

You're Going To Do WHAT To My Eyes???? Part 1

When you go to the eye doctor, some doctors will perform a test where they blow a small puff of air into your eye to test your intraocular pressure (IOP). This is called non-contact tonometry. Most people don’t like this test because it startles them and it makes their eyes water. Here, at Choice Eye Center, we don’t use the puff test. Instead, we use the icare tonometry, which is much softer than the puff test. Our doctor, along with other experts, believe this test is more accurate for tracking intraocular pressure. The icare tonometry is performed by using a tiny plastic probe bouncing on your eye several times to read the pressure of your eye. It will then calculate the average pressure reading as the final eye pressure results. Most people describe the feeling of this test as a light tickling of the eye.

Another option for finding the IOP that is sometimes used is The Goldman’s Test. In this test the doctor will first numb the patient's eye and then apply fluorescein, which is a dye, that will help illuminate the eye during the test. After the eye is numb, the doctor will turn the blue light on and bring the Goldman probe in contact with the eye. The doctor will then look through the biomicroscope (slit lamp) at the eye to find the correct measurement and record it in your chart. A high pressure will indicate further testing and possibly glaucoma. A low pressure is called ocular hypotony and can cause blurred vision.

Every time you see your eye doctor you should have at least one of these tests done to track changes in your intraocular pressure to ensure that you get proper care quickly. This is just one of the many reasons you should get your eyes checked every year. (Glaucoma Research Foundation, glaucoma.org)

Who are the 3 "O's" in Eye Care? And When Should I See Them?

Ophthalmologist - is a medical doctor who specializes in the pathology of the eye. Their specialty includes treating the eye and performing surgeries to correct eye conditions. Ophthalmologists can also perform routine eye exams and prescribe glasses and contacts. Ophthalmologists are oftentimes involved in research regarding cures and causes of eye conditions. As an MD, they complete approximately 12-13 years of education, like any other MD. (American Academy of Ophthalmology aao.org)

Optometrist - is a doctor of optometry. They are the primary care professionals for your eyes. Optometrists focus on managing vision. They will diagnose vision problems, treat patients' visual needs using a wide range of practices from eyeglasses and contacts to vision therapy. Optometrists can also treat eye conditions and prescribe medications for the eye. They are not medical doctors. However, they are doctors of optometry. Optometrists will complete approximately 8 or more years of education focused on the health and treatment of the eye. (American Academy of Ophthalmology aao.org)

Optician - is the person who helps you pick out your glasses. Along with being your fashion consultant for eye wear, they can adjust your eyeglasses to give you that custom fit. Opticians also help you to select the right lenses for your needs and educate you on why these lenses are right for you. Some opticians can also manufacture your glasses. In some states, opticians can also assist the eye doctor by performing some simple tests prior to the eye exam, and they can also teach you how to insert and remove contact lenses properly for new contact lens wearers. Opticians are trained on the job and they can become certified by the American Board of Opticianry (ABO Certified). (American Academy of Ophthalmology aao.org)

When Should I See Each of them?

Optometrists are the primary eye care providers and they will refer you to see an ophthalmologist as needed. Ophthalmologists usually have sub-specialties and are referred to. You are always welcome to see an ophthalmologist. However, unless you have been referred to an ophthalmologist, it is recommended that you see an optometrist.

Think of it this way, you would not go to a cardiologist for your yearly physical. The same goes for eye doctors. You should see your optometrist every year for your routine eye exam and for emergent eye care, and they will refer you to an ophthalmologist as needed.

You will likely see an optician every time you visit the eye doctor. Whenever you pick out glasses and have them adjusted you will be working with and optician.