If you are scheduling your next eye exam, it can often be overwhelming, and many people stress out about the eye and vision test.
Here are my favorite eye exam tips to make your next visit go as smooth as possible!
Tip 1: Relax!
The overall important thing is to not stress about it and try to relax. Some people will try very hard to cheat and perform better on their vision testing but this can often work against them, making the test take longer and resulting in people second guessing themselves.
Tip 2: Better 1 or 2?
The eye exam for glasses (called a refraction) is often a major source of concern for people. The best tip I can give you is to try not to split hairs over the options. If the two lens options are tough to tell the difference, then tell your eye doctor or whoever is performing the procedure know that the two options look the same. This is in fact a favorable result. If your eye doctor needs to show you more options to fine tune your glasses prescription, they will do so.
And a pro tip: if you’re very perceptive and can notice the letters getting smaller and darker, let your doctor know that too. That may mean you are getting too much power!
Tip 3: The Eye Pressure Test
The eye pressure test, or the “eye puff” can be a source of stress for many. Stay calm and don’t hold your breath during the eye pressure test. Holding your breath and tensing up may cause your eye pressure to spike up, meaning your doctor will want to do the test again.
Tip 4: Medical and Vision Insurance Cars
Bring in both your medical AND your vision insurance cards. Many eye exams are covered by your medical insurance, leaving more benefits for you to use on contacts, glasses, etc.
Tip 5: Your Medication List
Many medications can effect the eyes. It’s important for your doctor to know what medications you are taking, so be sure to bring in a list. In fact, that’s a good practice for any medical appointment you have!
Tip 6: Glasses and Contact Lens Prescription
Bring in any current glasses or contact lenses with you! This makes things go smoother and save you time.
Tip 7: Dilated Eye Exam
Prepare to be dilated! The eye drop used to dilate your eyes causes your pupil to get very big, and it a very important part of a thorough eye exam. It allows your doctor to see inside of your eye and detect diseases that can show up in the back of your eye. Your eye exam is more than just updating your glasses prescription. It’s about making sure your whole body and eyes are staying healthy.
Planning to get new glasses at your next visit?
Here’s my complete guide to selecting your next pair of glasses!
Disclaimer: This information is not meant for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should follow up with your local healthcare provider regarding all matters related to your health.