Should I Be Afraid Of My Eye Doctor

Although going for a visit to the eye doctor may seem frightening; there is really nothing to be afraid of. In fact, there are many things to be happy about. A visit to the optometrist is well worth your time and may save your eyesight. If you have an insurance plan which covers vision it is usually well worth your money to go for your annual visit. If you are uninsured you may be able to set up a payment plan which fits your budget or visit a chain of optometrists.

When you arrive at your appointment you will be greeted and checked in by the staff at the front desk. Any insurance information and payment will be collected or arranged for you at this time. You can expect your appointment to last around an hour. It may be a little longer if this is your first appointment. The optometry assistant will perform a variety of tests to accurately gauge your vision and screen for any potential health problems. The assistant will ask you your health history and any medications you are currently taking.

If you wear glasses they will test the strength of your current prescription by using a machine. Some of tests will require you to verbally state what you see when you look in a screen or read the letters off the chart. Most of the tests are not painful and are very simple to complete. One test will shoot a small puff of air into your eye. This is momentarily uncomfortable, but should not be painful. The results of your tests will be compiled and you will be taken back to an exam room. If necessary, the assistant may dilate your eyes before the doctor enters the room.

The doctor will receive your chart and discuss the results with you. If you had your eyes dilated the doctor will examine them. If the doctor notices anything out of the ordinary, treatment can be started immediately. Many diseases that affect the eyes are progressive and can worsen if left untreated. Your updated prescription will be given to you to get new glasses if there was a change in your vision.

Visiting the eye doctor annually can ensure that any potential issues are promptly brought to a trained professional's attention. Treatment and patient education can be started, preventing progression of the issue. It is important to not fear a visit to the eye doctor, but to make going an annual habit.