How Does a Medical Eye Exam Differ From a Standard Eye Exam?

Most people understand that eye exams are vital for eye health, but most do not know what the exams entail. Some assume that eye exams are only for those who need prescription lenses. 

There are differences between eye exams. If your doctor recommends a certain type, you should know what to expect. Read on to find out more about the various types of eye exams.

Medical Eye Exams

Examining the inner eye can allow doctors to detect diseases and conditions that can lead to impaired vision or blindness. Eye diseases that can cause vision loss include glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and cataracts. Early detection of the diseases can help in implementing an effective treatment or management plan. 

Protecting Overall Health

A medical eye exam plays an essential role in protecting overall health. The eye is a vital and complex organ that often acts as a window to the body. By examining the eyes, doctors can see what is occurring in other parts of the body. 

They can detect diseases such as diabetes, strokes, tumors, high blood pressure, and cancer through the eyes. Medical eye exams can reveal systemic conditions that might otherwise be overlooked. 

Standard Eye Exams 

Standard eye exams usually help determine the refraction for people with vision problems. They help determine the patient’s prescription, allowing the optometrist to recommend the best correction option. 

Using the results of the exam, the eye specialist can prescribe lenses that will provide the best results. Apart from checking the prescription, the optometrist will also conduct an overall eye evaluation to ensure the eyes are healthy. 

Differences Between Eye Exams

Medical eye exams are different from standard exams because they are usually conducted to evaluate a health condition. Also known as well-eye, the exams are often conducted when treating a patient for a medical condition. In some cases, physicians recommend the exams to confirm a certain diagnosis. 

Standard eye exams are usually not considered medical exams as they mainly deal with the shape of the individual’s eyes. The exams typically require one office visit to provide a diagnosis, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. They determine whether vision aids or prescription lenses can give the patient clearer vision.

The risk for eye conditions increases as people age. It is vital to ensure that you schedule regular exams as you age. A comprehensive eye exam provides vital information about eye health. Your doctor can recommend the best exam schedule, depending on your age. 

For more information on how medical eye exams differ from standard eye exams, contact Eye Care Center at our office in Fridley, Maplewood, and Maple Grove, Minnesota. Call (763) 308-8440, (651) 777-3555 or (763) 420-6981 to schedule an appointment today.