At Austin Vision Associates, we strive to provide comprehensive, primary eye care for the whole family. Preventative and routine eye exams are important to maintaining good eye health. Often, eye and vision problems do not have obvious symptoms or signs, but are easily diagnosed by a licensed optometrist. By diagnosing eye and vision conditions early on, our optometrist is able provide treatment options and in many cases restore or prevent vision loss. The American Optometric Association recommends yearly or bi-yearly eye and vision exams, depending on whether you are at-risk or not.
Eye Exam and Consultation
During an eye exam, Dr. Steven and Donna Shepard will ask you questions about any symptoms or issues you are experiencing, medications you are currently taking, any blurry vision, your work environment, and your overall health. Family history and previous eye or vision conditions will also be discussed during this part of the examination. Dr. Shepard will consider this information when determining any treatments or recommendations.
Vision Testing
Regular vision testing and evaluations ensure that you always have the clearest vision possible. Our Austin optometrist provides regular vision acuity test as part of a comprehensive eye exam. Dr. Shepard will measure how each eye is seeing by using a wall eye chart and a reading eye chart. The results of these tests are portrayed as a fraction, with 20/20 being the standard for normal distance and reading vision. Depending on the results of your vision test, Dr. Shepard may prescribe corrective glasses, contacts, or eye exercises.
Eye Function Testing
In addition to vision testing, an eye exam in our Austin office includes testing eye functionality. Our optometrist performs several tests to evaluate depth perception, color vision, eye muscle capabilities, peripheral vision, and responsiveness to light. Several other simple tests are completed to determine whether the eyes are focusing, moving, and working together properly. The test results enable Dr. Shepard to diagnose any underlying conditions that may be impairing the eyes ability to focus or work together.
Eye Health
As part of a comprehensive eye exam, our Austin optometrist examines the overall health of the eye through a visual examination and tonometry. Dr. Shepard evaluates eye health by visually inspecting the eye and eyelids using magnification and a bright light. To examine the internal structures of the eye, we may dilate the pupils. Increased eye pressure may be an indicator of glaucoma, so we utilize tonometry to measure eye pressure. After completing these short tests, Dr. Shepard reviews the results and discusses an treatments with you. Contact us at 512-343-0406 today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.