Eye Disorders and Testing
Common eye problems include refractive errors (like nearsightedness), cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, amblyopia (lazy eye), and strabismus (crossed eyes). These conditions can develop from age-related changes, disease, infection, inherited disorders, or injuries to the eyes.
Eye doctors use several specialized tests to check eye health. Tonometry measures pressure inside your eye, while a slit lamp examination uses a microscope and light to examine eye structures. A fundoscopic exam allows doctors to see your retina after dilating your pupils with special drops.
To check your vision quality, doctors use visual acuity tests (the familiar letter charts) and refraction tests that determine your prescription for glasses or contacts. For more detailed images of blood vessels in your retina, fluorescein angiography might be used, which involves injecting a special dye.
Remember: Regular eye exams are crucial even if you think your vision is perfect! Many serious eye conditions have no early symptoms but can be treated if caught early.