An eye examination is carried out by an optometrist and usually takes about 20-30 minutes. As well as testing your sight, the optometrist will check the health of your eyes and look for signs of problems.

Symptoms
Before the examination, the optometrist needs to know what symptoms you have and whether any changes have happened suddenly or slowly over a period of time. This helps to determine the (medical) state of your eyes.

Vision and tests
Your vision will be measured both with and without glasses or lenses to check for any problems with your eyesight. The optometrist will then carry out a series of tests to measure the type and extent of any problem with your vision.

Eye movements and co-ordination
Eye movements and co-ordination are checked to make sure that both eyes are working together, and that undue stress is not being placed on the eye muscles. Good muscle balance is particularly important if you use computers or read a lot.

Results
With all the tests done, the optometrist has detailed knowledge of the health of your eyes, the standard of your vision and any special requirements that you may have. You’ll be given a prescription for glasses or contact lenses, or a statement which confirms that your eyes don’t need correction.

If you need medical treatment for an eye condition you may be referred to your doctor or hospital.