Getting an eye exam is important anytime you are struggling with your vision. If you feel like you can't see as sharply as you used to be able to, getting an eye exam can help you to narrow down what the problem might be and take steps to make things right early on. Whether you need a new pair of glasses or refractive surgery, it all starts in your eye doctor's office. Here are three things you should bring with you when you go in for an eye exam.
1. Old Glasses and Contacts
While it may seem pointless to bring in your old glasses or contacts with you to your exam, many doctors prefer that patients do this so they can see what kinds of prescriptions they have been relying on. Many eye clinics have machines that can detect the prescription of a pair of glasses, and your doctor may inspect your box of contacts to see what kind of prescription you have been wearing. If you have contacts, your eye doctor may also ask you to put them into your eyes, so they can see how they have been fitting. All of the information they garner through these inspections can help them to narrow down the right prescription faster, which can save you time and improve the accuracy of your prescription.
2. Any Previous Eye Exam Notes
Sometimes, eye doctors give their patients handwritten eye exam cards, along with important information about vision correction. These notes may also be included in electronic notes, so make sure to find any of that paperwork and bring it with you or forward the emails to your new eye care office.
Your doctor may be able to learn more about your individual eye anatomy, medical history, or previously performed surgeries to treat your eyes properly. For instance, if you sustained an eye injury, the notes from how your injury presented and how it was treated can help your new doctor to avoid treatments that could damage your vision.
3. List of Medications
Certain medications can impact your vision. For instance, antihistamines can cause dry eyes, and other medicines may cause watering or make you more prone to infections. Always bring a current list of your supplements and medications and their dosages to your eye doctor so you can fill out an accurate patient medical history form.
During your eye exam, try to be as articulate and accurate as possible when you answer your doctor's questions. Information about what you can see, how sharp an object is, or how your eyes are feeling can be very useful to an optometrist, especially if you have a preexisting vision disorder.
To learn more about eye exams, contact a local optometrist.
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