How do I know I need an eye test?
Regular eye examinations are more than just a careful examination of your vision. They’re an essential check on the health of your eyes.
Even if you feel like your eyesight is perfect, and whether or not you wear glasses, it’s recommended to have an eye test at least every one to two years.
Regular checkups
We recommend that every adult and child should have their eyes examined by an optometrist every one or two years, regardless of whether you’re experiencing any vision difficulties, as most eye problems that can cause problems in the long term present with few initial symptoms.
A comprehensive eye test takes about 20 – 30 minutes. If you feel you have very complex requirements for your eyes, it would be advisable to let us know when you book your eye exam, and we can ensure additional time is allocated.
Your eye health
If you’ve had problems with your vision or your eye health, it’s advisable to be tested more frequently.
It is also advisable to have more frequent check ups if you have health problems which affect your eyes, such as diabetes, or if you have a family history of eye health problems such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts or strabismus, or even a history of many people wearing glasses in the family.
Signs that will indicate you need an eye test
If you are experiencing vision problems, then you should have an eye test as soon as you can to discuss the issues with your optometrist.
If you notice any of the following symptoms you should make an appointment:
- Blurry vision at any distance
- Headaches when reading or looking at your computer screen
- Having trouble reading, or seeing the computer screen or television
- Getting double vision
- Difficulty with colour discrimination
- Difficulty when driving
- Difficulty with glare
- Difficulty with night vision
- Mobility problems especially bumping into or tripping over objects, particularly those on one side
- Any other change in your vision or eye health
What happens during an eye test?
We make the process simple, thorough, and tailored to you:
- Conversation first: we talk about your vision needs, health, and family history.
- Vision checks: reading charts at different distances and reviewing your current glasses or contact lenses.
- Prescription testing: finding the lenses that give you the clearest, most comfortable sight.
- Eye health scan: checking for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or retinal changes.
Depending on your eye and family history, extra tests may be recommended to give a complete view of your eye health. These advanced eye tests may include:
- Retinal scans: detailed images of the back of your eye
- Pupil-dilating drops: for a clearer view inside the eye
- Glaucoma checks: measuring eye pressure and peripheral vision
- Binocular vision tests: checking how well your eyes work together
At the end of the consultation, the optometrist will discuss:
- Your vision and eye health results.
- What your results mean for you and your day to day vision.
- A recommendation tailored to your personal needs.
- Glasses, prescription sunglasses and contact lenses that may be suitable for you, if necessary.
George and Matilda optometrists collaborate with ophthalmologists, general practitioners, and allied health care professionals to ensure you get the best possible eye care. If your eyes need additional assessment, we can refer you to an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon).