Whether it’s your first vision care exam in a while or you’re a regular with your eye care provider, preparing for your exam can make a world of difference. Taking a few extra steps before an appointment ensures your exam goes smoothly, your questions get answered and you leave feeling confident in your vision health.
What Should I Bring to my Exam?
- Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses: Always bring all the corrective lenses you currently use, including prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses and contact lenses. This helps your eye care provider assess your current prescription and check the fit and effectiveness of your eyewear.
- List of Medications: Write down every medication you’re currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medications can impact your vision or eye health, so it’s important for your provider to have the complete picture.
- Photo Identification: Many offices require this for their records or insurance verification.
What Information Does my Eye Care Provider Need?
- Allergies: List any allergies you have, especially to medications, eye drops or materials like latex. This helps your provider avoid triggering a reaction.
- Current Symptoms: Be prepared to discuss any vision changes, discomfort, headaches, floaters, flashes of light or eye strain you’ve noticed recently. The more details you provide, the better your provider can help.
- Eye Health History: If you’ve had eye surgeries, injuries or diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts or dry eyes, make note of these. Bring documentation if available, especially if you’re going to a new provider.
- Family History: Eye diseases often run in families. Share any family history of conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration or diabetes, as this is important for providers to note.
Other Tips for a Smooth Exam
- Arrive early to complete paperwork and review your information.
- Bring a list of questions or concerns you want to address.
- If your eyes might be dilated, be sure you have sunglasses and/or arrange for a ride home, as your eyes may be temporarily sensitive to light.
