What a Comprehensive Eye Examination Involves

A comprehensive eye examination combines several tests that together assess vision and the health of the eye. It usually begins with a history of symptoms, general health, medications, and family eye disease, followed by measurement of visual acuity with a letter chart. Refraction, using an autorefractor or retinoscopy and then a phoropter, determines any spectacle correction.

The examiner checks eye alignment and movements, pupil reactions, and the visual field, and measures intraocular pressure with a tonometer. A slit lamp microscope is used to inspect the eyelids, cornea, iris, and lens. After dilating drops widen the pupils, the retina, macula, and optic nerve are examined, often supplemented by retinal photography or OCT imaging.

Professional bodies publish guidance on examination intervals, which varies by age and by risk factors such as diabetes, a family history of glaucoma, and high myopia. Because conditions such as glaucoma and early diabetic retinopathy cause no symptoms, routine examination is the main way they are detected..