Eye Exams

Overview

Annual eye exams are important for the overall health of a patient. The eye shows signs of other illnesses that may be first discovered during the exam. At TrueVision Center, Dr. Tantisira’s experience as an ophthalmologist means her eye exams are thorough. She spends generous time with each patient and will diagnose and treat many common eye issues, including cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and dry eyes. This approach means that her patients maximize their vision as long as possible.

Why are Regular Eye Exams Important?

Regular eye examinations by an ophthalmologist are important for several reasons. First and foremost, medically trained (M.D.) eye doctors can help detect eye problems early on before they become more serious and potentially cause vision loss or blindness. Ophthalmologists are highly trained to identify all eye diseases and conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. By catching these issues early, ophthalmologists can promptly begin treatment, potentially slowing or preventing further vision loss.

Another reason to see an ophthalmologist regularly is to ensure that your corrective lenses are up-to-date. Your vision can change over time, and even small changes can impact your quality of life. By having regular eye exams, your ophthalmologist can identify changes in your vision and update your prescription as needed, helping you see clearly and comfortably.

Finally, regular eye exams can provide valuable information about other health conditions in the body, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. By examining the eyes, ophthalmologists can identify potential health concerns and refer patients to appropriate medical specialists.

What Happens During Eye Exams?

During an eye exam, Dr. Tantisira will evaluate several aspects of your eye health, including:

• Visual Acuity: The classic eye chart test helps determine how well you see at various distances.
• Refraction Test: If you need glasses or contact lenses, this test determines your exact prescription.
• Eye Muscle Test: Your eye muscles are checked to ensure proper coordination.
• Slit-Lamp Examination: This magnified view of your eyes helps check for conditions like cataracts or corneal damage.
• Pupil Dilation: Eye drops dilate your pupils, allowing a more thorough examination of the retina and optic nerve.

These tests and others form a complete picture of your eye health. Routine eye exams help detect problems that may not show symptoms early, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration.

How Often Should You Get an Eye Exam?

The frequency of eye exams depends on your age, health, and risk factors:

• Adults (18-60): It’s generally recommended to have an eye exam every two years. However, if you have risk factors like diabetes or a family history of eye disease, annual eye exams are suggested.
• Adults 61 and Over: As eye health tends to decline with age, it’s crucial to have an annual eye exam to detect issues like macular degeneration and cataracts early.

If you notice any changes in your vision or discomfort, it’s important to schedule an eye health checkup sooner.

Common Conditions Detected During Eye Exams

Routine eye exams can detect a variety of eye conditions and overall health issues, including:

• Glaucoma: A disease that damages the optic nerve, often without early symptoms.
• Cataracts: Clouding of the eye’s lens, leading to vision impairment.
• Macular Degeneration: A leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina caused by diabetes.

By catching these conditions early, Dr. Tantisira can recommend appropriate treatment options to prevent further damage and maintain your quality of life.

Preparing for Your Eye Exam

Before your eye exam, list any symptoms you may be experiencing, such as blurred vision or eye strain. Bring any current glasses or contact lenses you’re using, along with a list of medications. If you wear contacts, remove them before the exam unless instructed otherwise.

Consult with Dr. Tantisira for Eye Exams in Honolulu, HI

Routine eye exams by an ophthalmologist are crucial for maintaining good eye health and overall well-being. They can detect eye problems early, ensure up-to-date corrective lenses, and monitor the eyes’ overall health.

Dr. Tantisira offers complete eye examinations to check eye health and improve vision. Same-day appointments are also available for urgent eye problems. Contact Dr. Tantisira to see how she can help you achieve your desired appearance.

Dr. Tantisira has over 30 years’ experience with delicate surgery and Botox injections. She now features a wide assortment of cosmetic procedures in her Honolulu office. Contact Dr. Tantisira to see how she can help you achieve your desired appearance.

CALL: 808-591-9111
Contact Dr. Melanie Tantisira