Since the human eye is connected to the brain and circulatory (blood vessel) system, your ophthalmologist may also be able to detect disease in the brain or elsewhere in the body, which is revealed in the eyes.  For example, the medical eye examination may find the beginning of sight- or-health- threatening conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, brain tumor, multiple sclerosis, kidney disease and blood disease or infection (including AIDS). 

The components of the examination vary depending on your age, the date of your last exam, your family medical history and the nature of your eye problem.  Some preliminary tests will be performed by the ophthalmologist’s technicians or other professional assistants.  The comprehensive examination may include:

·         Visual acuity measurement

·         Determining the need for corrective lenses (“refraction”)

·         Eye muscle coordination

·         Pupillary responses to light

·         Testing side (peripheral) vision

·         Screening for glaucoma by measuring intraocular pressure (eye drops may be used)

·         Checking the eyelids and other tissues around the eye

·         Microscopic inspection of tissues within the eye including the cornea and lens.

·         Examination of optic nerve and retina, the nerve layer at the rear of the eye, macula, and blood vessels,with the viewing light of an ophthalmoscope. Dilating eye drops will be used to enhance the view of the inside of the eye.

The comprehensive eye exam may take one and a half to two hours so plan your time accordingly. Reversal eyedrops are available upon request. Dark glasses are provided for those who need them.