Tips on how to get the best out of your eye refraction test
I've been asked by a few customers why their eyeglasses are uncomfortable to wear despite trying them on in the shop without any issues. While there are many factors to consider, a common reason is a lack of preparation for the eye exam.
As an eye care provider (ECP), here are some tips for getting the most out of your next visit to your ECP.
An eye refraction test is a procedure to obtain your clearest (objective) and most comfortable (subjective) vision through a combination of trial lenses that will be prescribed as your eyeglasses or contact lenses. This can be conducted by either an optometrist or an ophthalmologist. (In some countries, opticians can perform this test as long as they're licensed to do so).
This blog will cover how to prepare for your visit, what to do during the appointment, and what to expect afterward.
The following may be applicable for the general public. If you have a special eye condition like cataracts, keratoconus, or glaucoma, etc., you may be advised to see a specialist before moving on with this guide.
Before Your Refraction Test
Bring your previous prescription. This could be an official document or simply your current eyeglasses (or contact lenses). Details from your previous records help your ECP monitor changes in your vision. If you don't have them, don't worry.
If you wear contact lenses, you may be asked to rest your eyes for 20-60 minutes after removing them. Don't forget to bring your contact lens kit, or ask your ECP if they can provide one.
Get enough sleep. Your ECP can get more accurate findings when you are well-rested. Should you insist on getting a new pair with only a few hours of sleep, the prescription might be optimized for that state of fatigue, which may not be ideal.
During the Refraction Test
Be ready to answer questions. You'll be asked about everything from your visual concerns to your lifestyle activities. This helps your ECP consider all possible solutions for your eye care needs.
Be specific about your eye exam history. When asked about the date of your previous eye exam, avoid vague answers like, "When I was in my third year of college." This creates unnecessary follow-up questions. I just might respond with, "That's great! When was that?" If you don't remember the specific date, stating the year or roughly how many months have passed will suffice.
Expect each eye to be tested individually, and then both together (unless one eye is severely damaged). A refraction test is more of an art than a science, and each ECP has their own technique for conducting it.
Test the trial prescription. After your ECP finds your clearest refraction, you should "walk around" with the trial lenses in the test frame. It's like taking a car for a test drive or seeing if a shoe fits before you buy it. Your vision should be comfortably clear.
Communicate any discomfort. If the trial lenses feel off, your ECP will make modifications, usually by lowering the dioptric powers. Remember, your clearest vision isn't always your most comfortable vision. Since you may wear your glasses all day, comfort is key.
An experienced ECP should simulate your work environment. This includes checking:
- Your usual reading distance
- The height of your reading material (i.e. your desktop monitor)
- How you hold handheld documents and devices
This simulation helps your ECP determine your "wearing schedule" (i.e., how often you should wear your eyeglasses).
Ask questions. It's your ECP's duty to educate you on how to take care of your eyes and your new eyewear.
After the Eye Exam
Follow the wearing schedule. If your ECP specifically tells you that you should only use your glasses for reading, don't use them for driving.
Allow time for adjustment. Give your eyes a chance to adjust to a new pair of eyeglasses, even if your prescription hasn't changed. The parameters of a new frame can affect the optics of your lenses. Allow for an adjustment period of up to two weeks. If you feel any consistent discomfort that affects your daily activities, schedule a follow-up appointment.
Expect your vision to change. Your eyes, like any part of your body, will change over time due to age, stress, or trauma—regardless of whether you wear eyeglasses or not. This change can happen over 6 months to 2 years. So have a refraction test at least once a year even if you're not having any visual issues.
Conclusion
Make sure your eyes are well-rested before your eye exam. If applicable, bring your previous prescription glasses or any document detailing your last eye exam. Test-drive the trial prescription in the shop. And once you get your new glasses, pay attention to any discomfort at home or work during the adjustment period.