The Importance of Comprehensive Eye Exams at San Ramon Family Optometry
Your vision is one of your most valuable senses; taking care of it should be a top priority. Regular eye exams are essential to maintaining eye health and catching potential issues early. At San Ramon Family Optometry in San Ramon, we offer comprehensive eye exams designed to assess your vision and overall eye health accurately.
A common question we get asked is, “What is the most accurate way to test someone's vision?” Let's dive into the answer and explain why comprehensive exams are essential for maintaining your best possible eyesight.
What Is Visual Acuity?
Visual acuity refers to the sharpness or clarity of your vision. It measures how well your eyes can distinguish fine details, typically at a distance of 20 feet. When you come in for an eye exam at San Ramon Family Optometry, we assess your visual acuity as part of a complete evaluation of your eyes. This helps us determine how clearly you can see and whether you may need glasses or contact lenses to improve your vision.
How Is Visual Acuity Tested?
During a comprehensive eye exam at San Ramon Family Optometry, we use a variety of methods to test your visual acuity, depending on your specific needs. Some standard tools and techniques include:
- Snellen Eye Chart: This is the standard test for visual acuity. You stand a certain distance from the chart and read the most minor line of letters you can. The results are given as a ratio, such as 20/20 vision, which indicates normal clarity at 20 feet.
- Refraction Test: This test helps us determine your prescription for corrective lenses. We use a device called a phoropter to measure how your eyes focus light. We find the best prescription for you by switching between different lens strengths.
- Autorefractor: For more automated testing, we may use an autorefractor, which measures how light reflects off your retina to estimate your vision needs quickly and accurately.
These tests work together to give a complete picture of your eyesight. Based on the results, we may prescribe glasses or contacts or recommend further treatment if we detect an underlying issue.
Comprehensive Eye Exams vs. Basic Vision Screenings
You may have had a primary vision screening before, perhaps at a school or during a routine checkup. While these screenings are helpful for identifying major vision problems, they are no substitute for a comprehensive eye exam. At San Ramon Family Optometry, our comprehensive exams go beyond assessing visual acuity. We also check for a range of eye health issues, such as:
- Glaucoma
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Dry eye syndrome
These conditions can affect your vision and overall eye health, but they often don’t show symptoms in the early stages. Regular comprehensive eye exams allow us to catch these issues before they become more serious.
Why You Should Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Even if you think your vision is perfect, getting your eyes checked regularly is vital. Eye health can change over time; many conditions develop gradually without noticeable symptoms. By visiting San Ramon Family Optometry for routine comprehensive eye exams, you’ll ensure that any changes in your vision or eye health are caught early.
Preventative care is critical to maintaining your vision and eye health in the long run. A comprehensive eye exam can help diagnose problems before they affect your everyday life.
Book Your Eye Exam at San Ramon Family Optometry
Our optometry practice in San Ramon is committed to providing the highest quality care through thorough and accurate eye exams. Whether you’re due for a routine checkup or have noticed changes in your vision, our team is here to help.
Learn more about our eye exams here.
Please take the next step in preserving your vision by booking your yearly comprehensive eye exam with us!