Evaluation and Diagnosis
Early diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases can be of great benefit when it comes to preserving vision. It is recommended that all adults undergo routine ocular screening exams.
Any patient with known risk factors for eye disease, including systemic diseases that can affect the eye or a family history of eye disease, should undergo an eye exam to determine if they are at risk for ocular disease.
It is recommended that adults with no signs or risk factors for eye disease get a baseline eye exam at age 40. Based on this exam, and any associated risk factors, the ophthalmologist can recommend appropriate follow-up exam intervals.
Seniors age 65 and older should have complete eye exams every one to two years to check for cataracts, glaucoma, and retina or macular diseases.
During the eye exam, the following are assessed:
- Central vision
- Examination of the front of the eye, including the cornea, iris and lens
- Examination of the back of the eye, including the retina, macula and optic nerve
- Eyelid function and appearance
- Eye muscle function
- Intraocular pressure
- Peripheral vision
- Pupil reaction to light
If any abnormalities are noted or suspected, they will be discussed with the patient and appropriate recommendations offered.
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