Sight Test or Eye Exam... What's the Difference?


If you're taking the time to have your eyes checked, it makes good sense to ensure that you get a complete Eye Exam.

Don't be misled!  Some optical stores have started to offer what they call "sight tests," often free of charge.  But make no mistake.  A sight test is not an eye exam, which only Optometrists and Ophthalmologists are trained and licensed to perform.  Your health depends on knowing the difference.

1. Did You Know?

2. Did You Know?

3. Did You Know?

A Sight Test does NOT tell the whole story.

Other factors such as binocular vision (how your eyes work together) and accommodation (how well your eyes adjust their focus) also impact the spectacle prescription your optometrist gives you.

You could develop eyestrain, headaches, or even double vision if these additional elements are not taken into proper consideration.  Your optometrist may recommend vision therapy in addition to or instead of glasses or contact lenses.

A complete eye exam includes more than just a sight test to asses your prescription for glasses or contact lenses!

Regular visits to your optometrist are the best way to detect eye health problems, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma in time for effective treatment.

These visits could also uncover serious overall health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes or thyroid disorders.

Your Doctor of Optometry can prescribe topical medication to treat or control certain eye conditions, infections or diseases such as bacterial conjunctivitis or pink eye.

Infections or diseases like glaucoma and diabetes will NOT be detected by a Sight Test.  Don't settle for anything less than a complete eye examination by a trained doctor.

By visiting your OPTOMETRIST for your complete eye exam, you can be sure that your eye health is monitored by someone who cares not only about your vision, but about your total eye and overall health.

 

WE CARE about your eyes!

 

Here's how eye care works in Alberta:

Optometrists examine, diagnose and manage eye diseases and disorders of the vision system.  Treatment may include corrective lenses, medication or referral to another specialist such as a surgical Ophthalmologist.  Doctors of Optometry conduct the vast majority of eye exams in Alberta.

Ophthalmologists (an eye physician or surgeon) are medical doctors specializing in defects and diseases of the eye, and who diagnos and treat by medical, optical and surgical techniques. When required, optometrists will refer their patients to an ophthalmologist for treatment or surgery related to certain eye conditions or diseases, like retinal detachment or glaucoma.

Opticians are technician who grind, fit and dispense corrective lenses based on the written prescription of an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Most optometry offices employ opticians.

NOW is the time to make an appointment with your optometrist for a complete Eye Examination!

Click here to find an optometrist near you!