A routine eye examination takes from 20 to 30 minutes and is performed by one of our fully qualified and experienced optometrists.

Some examinations may take longer if extra specific tests are recommended or required.

The eye examination will usually include the following parts:

Several questions will be asked about the reasons for your consultation. This may be that you have simply received a reminder or there could be some specific problem about which you are worried.

If you are having problems, our optometrist will need to know how long you have had them, if any changes have happened over a short or long period and if these are associated with any particular task.

You will be asked about your general health and about any medicines you are taking either from your doctor or through other sources. Details of headaches, if any, and any close relatives who have eye problems will be needed to make sure these problems are not present in your eyes. Other information such as your occupation and details of your hobbies will help the optometrist to assess your visual needs and ensure that the correct spectacles are prescribed for your needs.

Your eyes will be examined both internally and externally. This will enable us to make an assessment of the general health of your eyes and to identify any other underlying health problems.

The interior of your eye will be examined with an ophthalmoscope which is like a torch which is shined through the pupil of your eyes. We also now have a special digital camera to permanently record the condition of the back of your eye.

Other tests may be carried out, if necessary, such as tests to rule out glaucoma, eye pressures, visual fields, digital photography of the retina of your eyes or colour vision tests.

Your vision will be tested with and without your spectacles or contact lenses to establish how well you can see and to ensure you are seeing as well as you are able. There are several other tests that follow. The precise order of the tests and the type will depend on the reason for your visit and the results of the initial part of the consultation, as well as your family history. You will be asked to choose between different lenses.

 

Some people find this difficult. You should not worry if you feel you are giving the wrong answer, or if you are unable to decide. This is a common problem, the optometrist is expecting it will be difficult and it is perfectly acceptable to say you are not sure. All the answers will be checked.

  

Eye movements and co-ordination. Several tests can be used to make sure your eye muscles are working properly together. This is particularly important to ensure that maximum efficiency is maintained and to keep you as efficient and comfortable as possible. If you have special close work requirements, such as lots of computer work, cross-stitching or other special hobbies or occupations, your examination will take these into consideration and specific advice given.

Please ask if there is anything you do not understand, we will explain our findings and give you a copy of the prescription or a statement explaining there are no spectacles required.

If you need glasses, we will help you choose the best lenses and frames for your needs (see Contact Lenses, Lenses and Frames or Glasses for Kids).

If you have problems with the spectacles we make for you, please make sure you contact us promptly. We will be pleased to check both the spectacles and see you to sort out any difficulties.

Some people may be entitled to NHS examinations which are paid for by the government. Please contact our reception or e-mail us for more information. For those not covered by the NHS or those requiring our special assessments or vision therapy (see Vision & Learning or Vision Therapy) or those requiring contact lenses, there may be an additional fee to pay. Some other tests, such as digital retinal photography and colorimetry, may not be available under the NHS at this practice.

Unless otherwise advised by our optometrist, we recommend an eye examination at least every two years. Some people may need to be seen more frequently.