WHAT HAPPENS AT AN EYE EXAMINATION?

During an eye examination for adults:

• Paul will take a detailed history and ask about any current symptoms
• Your current visual acuity (ie. how well you can see) is measured, followed by an assessment of eyes for optical correction and new visual acuity
• Paul will also assess eye muscle balance and check your ocular (eye) health, looking for signs of cataract, diabetes, glaucoma, macular degeneration and other eye conditions. This may require some eye drops to dilate the pupil of the eye.
• Intra-ocular pressure is routinely measured for the over 40's or if there is a strong family history of glaucoma.
• Paul may also conduct some additional tests including computerised visual field testing, digital retinal photography (to monitor eye health) and colour vision assessment (to check for colour vision deficiency).
• Referral to an ophthalmologist or other medical practitioner is provided if required

Does it hurt? No - an eye examination generally does not involve any discomfort and takes around 30-45 minutes. Drops for dilation of the pupils may cause some sensitivity to glare and slightly blurred vision which normally resolve after a few hours.

During an eye examination for children:

• Paul will take a detailed history and ask about any current symptoms
• Current visual acuity is measured using pictures, numbers or letters depending upon the child's age and literacy level
• The ability to focus, eye muscle balance, movement and co-ordination are all measured.
• Eyes are assessed for optical correction and new visual acuity
• Depth perception is assessed
• Paul will also assess your child's ocular (eye) health and provide a diagnosis and suggested course of action
• Referral to a medical practitioner or other eyecare professional if required

Is it an unpleasant experience for children? No - and with many years experience Paul makes it enjoyable and fun for children. However it is reassuring to have Mum, Dad or a special carer in the consulting room as the room has to be darkened and this can be a bit unsettling for some children. Eye examinations for children take around 30-45 minutes. One parent or carer is welcome in the consulting room while their child's eye examination takes place however for safety and distraction reasons, siblings and other family members are encouraged to remain in the waiting room.