What Is a Refraction Eye Exam
Like any other body organ, the eyes require regular check-ups to ensure they are in good shape and functioning well. A crucial part of these check-ups is a refraction eye exam, which helps identify possible vision problems affecting our everyday lives.
So, what is a refraction eye exam exactly?
A refraction eye exam is a routine test typically performed during a comprehensive assessment. It is designed to measure the refractive error of the eye, providing the information needed to determine the correct prescription for your eyeglasses or contact lenses. It helps eye care professionals understand how well your eyes focus light on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
It is significant because refractive errors are the most common vision problems globally. Identifying these issues early on can help implement appropriate corrective measures to maintain optimal vision and prevent further complications such as eye strain and headaches.
What Is a Refraction During an Eye Exam?
A refraction during an eye exam is the process of determining the eye’s focusing ability. Refraction meaning refers to the bending of light as it passes through the eye’s lenses, impacting one’s visual clarity.
Key Components of an Eye Refraction Exam
A refractive eye examination includes multiple tests designed to assess your eyes and provide the most accurate prescription for glasses or contact lenses. The critical components are:
Visual Acuity Test
The visual acuity test assesses your ability to see clearly at different distances using a standardized set of letters, numbers, or symbols arranged on an eye chart. During the test, the eye specialist will ask you to read the smallest line of characters you can see from a specific distance, usually 20 feet. Your visual acuity will then be recorded as a fraction, with “normal” vision being 20/20.
Retinoscopy
An eye specialist will perform a retinoscopy to evaluate how well your eye focuses light. This process involves shining a light into your eye and observing the reflection from the retina while placing various lenses in front of your eye. The lenses help the specialist determine your refractive error and the power of the corrective lenses needed. Retinoscopy is a safe and non-invasive procedure that can be performed on patients of all ages, including infants, and provides valuable information for accurate prescriptions.
Refractor or Phoropter Test
The test is performed using a phoropter, a specialized device that holds various lenses in front of your eye. While you look at a chart, a specialist will change the lenses to determine which strength provides the clearest vision. You will be asked to provide feedback on which lens option is better or clearer. This test helps determine the type of refractive error you have and the precise prescription needed to correct it.
Common Vision Problems Identified in an Eye Refraction Exam
The following are some of the vision problems often identified during an eye refraction exam:
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a vision problem affecting individuals’ ability to see distant objects clearly. This transpires when the cornea is too curved or the eyeball is too long. Due to this, the light entering the eye focuses in front of the retina instead of directly on it. For this reason, far objects often appear blurry, while near objects can easily be seen.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, is a condition opposite to myopia. People with hyperopia can see distant objects clearly but struggle to see nearby subjects. This happens because the eyeball is too short or the cornea is too flat, which causes light to focus behind the retina instead of directly on it. Although some individuals with mild hyperopia may still see nearby objects reasonably well, it often strains their eyes and can cause discomfort.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism is a prevalent vision problem due to an irregularly shaped cornea or an uneven curvature of the lens. This irregularity hinders the light from focusing uniformly on the retina, resulting in blurred vision at all distances. Individuals with astigmatism may experience eyestrain, headaches, and squinting due to the constantly distorted vision. Astigmatism can occur alongside myopia and hyperopia, and all three conditions can be rectified with the appropriate eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia is a common age-related condition that affects people over the age of 40. It happens because as we age, the lens of the eye loses its flexibility, making it harder to see objects up close. People with presbyopia may hold objects farther away to read or see them. They may need reading glasses or multifocal lenses to correct the problem.
Discover the Benefits of a Refractive Eye Exam at the Eye Institute of Austin
Understanding what is a refractive eye exam, and its importance in maintaining your eye health, is essential for people of all ages. Detecting any vision problems or eye conditions at an early stage can significantly improve the prognosis and treatment options.
The Eye Institute of Austin has been committed to serving the community since 1963. We provide exceptional care and treatment for your family’s eye health. With eight experienced physicians and a team of highly trained ophthalmology professionals, you can trust that your vision is in the best hands. Our dedication to staying up-to-date with the latest technology and research ensures that we are equipped to offer you the best possible care.
Schedule your appointment at the Eye Institute of Austin today to find out what is a refraction eye exam and how it can improve your eye health.