Eye test

An eye test is an examination of your eyes and your vision. It is carried out by an optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist, depending on the reason for and scope of the examination. A standard eye test assesses your visual acuity, your prescription and whether you need glasses or contact lenses. In addition, the health of your eyes can be assessed.

There are various types of eye tests. A refraction test determines your prescription and assesses whether you are short-sighted, long-sighted or have astigmatism. A visual acuity test measures how clearly you can see at different distances, usually using an eye chart or symbols. During a more comprehensive eye examination, your eye pressure may also be measured, the health of your cornea, lens and retina assessed, and signs of eye conditions detected.

An eye test is often recommended every two years, or more frequently if you have any symptoms, wear contact lenses or are at increased risk of eye conditions. Regular check-ups are considered particularly important for children and older people.

When should you have an eye test?

You should have an eye test if you notice that your vision is becoming less clear, if you suffer from headaches when working at a computer screen, if you have difficulty reading or driving, or if you already wear glasses or contact lenses and want to have your prescription checked. Even if you have no symptoms, it is wise to have your eyes checked regularly, as some eye conditions do not show any symptoms in their early stages.

What happens during an eye test?

During a standard eye test at an optician’s or optometrist’s, you will be asked to read letters or symbols at various distances. Using a phoropter or trial frames, different lenses are placed in front of your eyes to determine your optimal prescription. Sometimes your eye pressure is also measured, and your eyes are examined both externally and internally using specialised equipment. If there is any doubt or if you have specific symptoms, you may be referred to an ophthalmologist for further examination.

Eye tests and contact lenses

If you want to start wearing contact lenses or already do, you’ll need an eye test specifically for contact lenses. This not only determines your prescription but also measures the curvature of your cornea and checks the fit of the lens. The optician or optometrist will assess whether your eyes are suitable for contact lenses and which type is best for you. They will also explain how to use and care for the lenses safely.