1. Retinoscopy
This test assesses how well your eyes focus by determining your refractive error—whether you are long-sighted or short-sighted. While you focus on a distant object, your optometrist will shine a light into your eyes and use a series of lenses to refine your prescription.
In some cases, pupil-dilating drops may be used to get a clearer view of the eye’s internal structures.
2. Snellen Chart Test (Visual Acuity Test)
This is the familiar letter chart test that measures your visual sharpness. You’ll be asked to read letters of various sizes, with and without lenses, to evaluate whether your vision meets the 20/20 standard or if a prescription is required to enhance your sight.
3. Ophthalmoscopy (Fundus Examination)
Using a specialist instrument called an ophthalmoscope, your optometrist examines the back of the eye, including the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. This helps in detecting conditions like retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, or signs of hypertension.
4. Slit Lamp Examination
A slit lamp is a high-powered microscope that provides a magnified view of the eye’s front structures, including the cornea, iris, and lens. This test is especially important for contact lens users and helps to identify any scratches, infections, or early signs of cataracts.
5. Visual Field Testing
This checks your peripheral (side) vision and is vital for detecting early signs of glaucoma, optic nerve disorders, or neurological conditions. You’ll be asked to identify flashing lights in your outer field of view while focusing on a central point.
6. OCT Scan (Optical Coherence Tomography)
An advanced, hospital-grade scan, OCT captures detailed 3D images of the retina and deeper eye layers. It can detect eye diseases such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy up to four years earlier than traditional methods.
The scan is quick, non-invasive, and highly recommended for patients over 40 or those with a family history of eye conditions.
Book your eye test today with Robin Hall Opticians and experience expert care you can rely on.
