An annual eye exam involves more than just updating your glasses or contact prescription. A comprehensive eye exam can also detect eye health issues as well as general health problems. Conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can be detected in early stages through an eye exam.

An eye exam involves a series of simple but comprehensive tests that allow your optometrist to assess your vision and your eye health. Your optometrist will discuss the results of your eye exam with you and determine the right prescription.

Bring your vision insurance and medical insurance information. If you currently wear prescription lenses, bring your eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses. Also bring any questions you may have.

Changes in vision that occur with age include reduced pupil size, dry eyes, loss of peripheral vision, and decreased color vision. The most common age-related vision problem is presbyopia — the normal loss of focusing ability. The risk of developing cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy also increases with age.

A comprehensive eye exam will determine if your eyes are healthy enough for contacts. During a contact lens fitting, detailed measurements of your eyes will be taken. There is an additional fee for a contact lens fitting and evaluation.

An optometrist can treat vision problems like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, as well as common eye problems like dry eye syndrome and eye infections. Optometrists also treat chronic eye diseases such as glaucoma.

Signs include sitting too close to the television, squinting, sensitivity to light, difficulty with eye-hand coordination, and avoiding visual activities like reading. An eye exam is the best way to determine if your child needs glasses.