A series of tests performed to measure the eyes’ ability to see clearly and to screen for common eye diseases. If one sees normally, an eye examination every 3 to 5 years during adulthood until age 50 years is recommended. After that, the eyes should be examined more frequently. If one wears or needs glasses, examinations should be conducted at least every 2 years, or more often if recommended by an eye specialist. Contact lens wearers should be examined at least once a year.
Observation, evaluation, and analysis of the ear by a physician, usually an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist). A physical examination of t he internal parts of the ear can be performed by using an otoscope (a lighted viewing instrument inserted into the outer ear). The doctor may pull the top of the ear up and back to straighten the canal and provide a clearer view of the entire ear canal. The otoscope allows the physician to view internal parts of the ear from the outer ear canal through the somewhat transparent eardrum. In more severe cases of ear infection, the ear examination may include taking a culture. Examining the ear with a binocular microscope is often helpful in difficult cases. When hearing loss or symptoms including dizziness or ringing in the ears are present, audiometry (hearing measurement tests) may also be recommended.
Ophthalmic examination involves inspecting the structures of the eyes, which can be conducted as part of a vision test or to diagnose potential eye disorders when there are suspicions of any abnormalities or issues.
Eye examinations serve the purpose of identifying the reasons behind visual disturbances or other symptoms associated with the eyes. Additionally, they are conducted to evaluate whether corrective measures like glasses or contact lenses are required. These tests play a crucial role in detecting certain serious eye conditions, such as glaucoma, where the eye’s fluid pressure is abnormally high. Often, such disorders exhibit no noticeable symptoms in the early stages, making them detectable only through thorough eye examinations.
The typical eye examination starts with a visual inspection of the eyes, eyelids, and the skin around them. The examiner also checks the eye movements and looks for any signs of squint, which indicates a misalignment of the eyes.
To assess the visual acuity (clarity of vision) in each eye, a Snellen chart, which is a standard eye test wall chart, is used. Following this, refraction testing is conducted using lenses of varying strengths to precisely determine if glasses or contact lenses are needed and, if so, the appropriate prescription.
In certain cases, particularly when glaucoma or various neurological conditions are suspected, an examination of the visual fields (the range of peripheral vision) may also be conducted to assess any potential abnormalities.
Periodic examination of color vision is conducted to detect potential abnormalities in the perception of colors, as it can serve as an indicator of specific disorders affecting the retina (the light-sensitive inner layer at the back of the eye) or the optic nerve (which transmits visual impulses from the retina to the brain). To assess the presence of abrasions or ulcers, ophthalmologists may apply fluorescein (an orange dye) to the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids) and the cornea (the transparent front dome of the eyeball).
Applanation tonometry, which measures the intraocular pressure, is a crucial examination for diagnosing glaucoma.
The ophthalmoscope is a tool utilized to inspect the interior of the eye, with a particular focus on the retina.
The slit-lamp microscope combines illumination and lens magnification to facilitate the examination of various parts of the eye, including the conjunctiva, cornea, front chamber, iris (the colored part of the eye), and lens (responsible for focusing).
In order to achieve a comprehensive view of the lens and the structures situated behind it, it is necessary to dilate the pupil (the circular opening in the center of the iris) using specialized eye drops.