Vision Screening

A vision screening is a relatively short examination that can indicate a vision problem. A screening will not tell a person what is wrong, but will indicate that you should see an eye doctor for a more comprehensive eye examination.

Eye Examination

An eye examination generally lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.? It usually includes the following questions:

Are you having any problems with your vision?

• How long have you had these problems?
• When do these problems occur?
• When was your last eye examination??
• Do you have any family history of eye problems? How is your general health??
• What medications are you taking?
• Do you have any allergies??

This?history of your own health and of your family's will give the doctor an indication of any issues that may be affecting, or could affect, your vision.?

The next phase usually involves testing your visual acuity.? During this time you'll be asked to read a range of letters that become progressively smaller as they near the bottom of the chart.

The eye doctor will be able to determine if the visual problems you are experiencing are normal age-related changes or if they are disease-related, and if additional testing, referral to another doctor or specialist, or treatments are needed.

See What is a Low Vision Examination?.