What to Do Before An Eye Exam?

Seeing the eye doctor for an eye examination requires thorough preparation. If you have eye concerns and want to make your appointment more efficient and satisfying, there are some necessary steps to take before you go. Here’s a breakdown of five things you must do before your eye examination, leading to a smoother experience. 

1. Keep Yourself Well-Hydrated

Staying hydrated is something that people with eye problems easily forget. Therefore, drink enough water to keep your eyes healthy and prevent them from drying out. During an eye exam, you may be required to hold your eyes open for longer, allowing your ophthalmologist to check them. 

In case your body is dehydrated, your eyes will be dry, making them uncomfortable to open. To feel comfortable throughout the exam and want them to be checked thoroughly, keep your body hydrated from the inside out. 

2. Wear Sunglasses

Before an eye exam, it’s essential to prevent your eyes from becoming strained. But how? By wearing sunglasses. During the appointment, optometrists and ophthalmologists will use eye dilation to examine your eyes from inside.

Once your eyes are dilated, they get more sensitive to light. That’s when you will require efficient sunglasses to protect them from sun exposure when you leave the clinic. Even though it’s not sunny outside, wearing sunglasses is a wise move. 

3. Remember Your Insurance Information

One of the contributing factors in having successful eye exams is insurance coverage. Be sure to bring your insurance card when you go out for your eye examination. By having it, filling out all related information and paying the fee for your appointment will be much easier. 

If you don’t keep your card in your wallet, at least take its picture and save it on your phone. Doing so will save you from last-minute hassle, as you will have the necessary information at hand.

4. Avoid Having Too Much Caffeine

Caffeine intake can cause high blood pressure, which can be an indication of a higher risk of glaucoma. During your eye exam, your eye doctor may measure your eye pressure. Reduce the amount of caffeine to ensure efficient and clearer reading. 

Right before an eye exam, consuming caffeine may not have a significant effect, but obtaining a more precise reading could be challenging. Thus, it’s best not to take a cup of coffee just before you go for your eye checkup. 

5. Note Down All Your Questions and Concerns

While you’re having your eye checkup, feel free to ask any questions and share concerns you may have. Most patients forget what they intend to ask and what problems they have to share with eye health professionals. 

To avoid this situation, note down all your issues – both major and minor – and questions regarding what type of medications you should take, and so on. 

Remember to bring your notebook with everything you want to ask and share. Upon your visit to an eye care clinic like Pearle Vision, your eye specialist will examine your eyes and ensure that they function properly. 

Based on your concerns, they will also recommend treatments you can try at home or prescribe medications to get after an eye exam. Sometimes, prompt treatment is necessary to maintain healthy and bright eyes.