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FULL COMPREHENSIVE EYECARE
WHAT TO EXPECT
In a routine eye examination an optometrist will assess and find solutions for the patient's vision problems and isolate any relationship to general health issues such as infection, allergy, diabetes, hypertension or other vascular, neurological, inflammatory or other disease process. If necessary appropriate medical referral is made and the patient’s doctor notified. During the examination any signs, symptoms and visual problems are recorded and discussed. A detailed medical and ocular history is taken including any prescribed medications.
After the history is taken the initial examination begins with an assessment of binocular eye motility (extra-ocular muscle function and related cranial nerve and congenital abnormalities are ruled out).Unaided and current aided visual acuities are measured and the pupil reflexes are checked as an abnormal reflex can be a sign of serious or even life threatening disease.
This is followed by an objective and subjective refraction to diagnose any myopia, hypermetropia, astigmatism, presbyopia or muscle imbalance problems and an accurate spectacle or contact lens prescription is determined. It is at this point solutions to the patient’s visual problems are found.
Direct and indirect binocular ophthalmoscopy is used to examine the internal eye including the lens, vitreous and retina with special attention to the optic nerve and macula to check for diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, hypertension, diabetes, retinal detachment etc. This is followed by high powered binocular slit lamp biomicroscopy for external examination of the anterior segment of the eye, and further internal examination. Inflammations and infections of the anterior segment such as conjunctivitis, episcleritis, scleritis and iritis are ruled out. The lens is checked for cataract and the intra-ocular pressure is measured to detect glaucoma. Corneal thickness is also measured as this is a factor in pressure readings.
If indicated visual field analysis may be recommended to measure any loss of vision due to glaucoma neurological or vascular disease.
Retinal imaging is now available to all patients who may need an image of their retina, as a record of their visual health. No referral is necessary. Any pathology will be digitally photographed and often a digital scan is recommended even in normal patients as a reference in future in case disease develops or to monitor changes in diseases such as glaucoma, diabetes or macula degeneration. A colour image can be provided to the patient if required. This imaging often presents an anomaly not easily seen with other optometric equipment, so if it is recommended by the optometrist there may be a very good reason to proceed with this further examination.Diagnosis & appropriate referral to an ophthalmologist may be made if required.
Assessment & evaluation can be provided for laser vision correction & co-management of post-op consultation.
We also provide the latest technology in disposable and custom fitted soft, gas permeable and keratoconus contact lens fitting and professional aftercare.
After the consultation is concluded the Optometrist will have the professional and friendly staff assist you in choosing from our extensive range of designer label frames and advising you on the most appropriate lens design technology to suit your needs and budget.
HOW OFTEN IS EXAMINATION RECOMMENDED
The American Optometric Association recommends a yearly eye examination for adults, not only to detect and to diagnose vision changes but, also to maintain eye health. For children, it is recommended that pre-school children receive a complete vision assessment at the ages of six months, three years and five years. Particularly important is a complete evaluation prior to entry to school. The schedule fee is rebatable from Medicare & means an 'out of pocket' amount of around $9 could be money well spent to prevent any loss of vision.
Regular eye examinations are recommended every 12 months to 2 years depending on your age & history of hereditary conditions or general health. An appointment can be arranged on 48 621 190.
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