What is the best time for an eye exam?

Asked by: Prof. Harmon Nader MD  |  Last update: February 4, 2024
Score: 4.8/5 (49 votes)

You'll also use your eyes more than when you first wake up since you'll be dealing with school, work, and everything in between. For this reason, the ideal time of day for an eye exam is usually in the morning.

What should you not do before an eye exam?

To get the most out of your appointment, there are a few things you can avoid doing to help your exam go smoothly.
  • Don't Leave Your Glasses and/or Contacts at Home. ...
  • Don't Drink Coffee or Alcohol. ...
  • Don't Strain Your Eyes. ...
  • Don't Feel Nervous. ...
  • Don't Leave Your Insurance Information at Home. ...
  • Don't Forget to Stay Hydrated.

When should you get an eye test?

For most people, it's advisable to have an eye test every two years, but it's best to attend earlier if any eye problems occur or if advised by your optometrist. You should seek professional advice if you are concerned about your eye health.

What is the best way to prepare for an eye test?

By getting a good night's sleep and avoiding too much time on digital screens, you are helping prepare your eyes for a happy exam experience. Try to hold off on a morning cup of coffee (or two) before your scheduled eye appointment. Remember to bring your insurance documents, current eyewear, and a pair of sunglasses.

Does lack of sleep affect eye prescription?

The effects of sleep deprivation extend to more than just dark circles under your eyes. If you're already wearing eyeglasses for vision correction, losing essential sleeping hours can exacerbate your eye condition. This means you may need stronger and stronger prescriptions as the years progress.

7 Eye Exam Tips for Better Vision, Glasses and Overall Experience

26 related questions found

What makes eye prescription worse?

Summary: Why Your Eye Prescription Changes Rapidly

Your age and eye diseases are two common causes of frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions. If you fear getting older has affected your vision or if a specific eye disease runs in your family, we recommend seeing an optometrist as soon as you can.

Will my eyesight get better if I sleep more?

It goes without saying that the longer you sleep for, the healthier and more hydrated your eyes will be. Glaucoma is another condition which can be caused by not resting your eyes enough. It occurs when too much pressure builds up inside your eye, damaging the optic nerve and first affects your peripheral vision.

What not to do after an eye exam?

Remember, it's important not to drive, rub your eyes, stare into bright light, or do any close work for at least four hours after the exam.

Do I need to bring anything to an eye test?

Answer: Note any changes you might've seen since your last test and think of any questions you might have for your optician. Remember to bring your current glasses or contact lenses and note the names of any prescription drugs or medication you might be taking.

How long are eyes blurry after eye exam?

When an optometrist dilates your eyes, it can take a while to wear off—usually between 4 to 24 hours. During that time, your vision may be blurry, and your eyes will be quite sensitive to light.

How often can a 70 year old have a free eye test?

Once you are over the age of 60 you are entitled to a free eye examination through the NHS, usually every two years. If you're on certain qualifying benefits, you'll get a voucher towards the cost of your glasses - your optician will be able to tell you this.

What age do you get free eye tests?

You're entitled to a free NHS sight test if you: are under 16. are 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education. are 60 or over.

How long does a routine eye test take?

Eye testing will take different lengths of time, depending on age and complexity. In the majority of cases, an eye test will take at least 20 to 30 minutes. Your vision is precious and getting regular check-ups with your optometrist will help to protect and preserve it by helping to monitor your overall eye health.

Why is my vision worse after an eye exam?

Eye dilation can cause several side effects. Once the dilation eye drops take effect, it is normal to experience slight stinging, blurred vision, difficulty focusing and sensitivity to light. In rare cases, people can have more serious side effects or allergies to eye dilation drops.

What can affect eye test?

The levels of hormones and sugar in our blood all play a major role in determining the quality of our vision. Having your eyes tested before breakfast, for example, or insufficient fluid intake beforehand may well influence the result.

Why should you not drink coffee before an eye exam?

Don't: Have Too Much Caffeine

Caffeine can affect your blood pressure, which is something that many eye doctors take when you have an eye exam. Elevated blood pressure can be a sign of an increased risk for glaucoma. Expect your eye doctor to measure your eye pressure during your eye exam.

Can I drive myself after eye exam?

People with light colored eyes are also more sensitive than those with dark eyes. Typically, vision is back to normal within an hour. There is no specific period of time that a person must wait before driving after having their eyes dilated; the decision to drive after an eye exam is a personal choice.

Do you get eye test results straight away?

Answer: Your optician will discuss the results with you at the end of the examination and explain if any further tests are required. They'll also tell you if there's a change in prescription, if you need new spectacles or lenses or if they've found any problems.

How long should you go without an eye exam?

Ages 20 to 39: Every 5 years. Ages 40 to 54: Every 2 to 4 years. Ages 55 to 64: Every 1 to 3 years. Ages 65 and up: Every 1 to 2 years.

Do you need sleep before eye exam?

Your eyes will be undergoing a lot of tests during your exam. It's important that you are well rested for this, try to get a full 8 hours of sleep before your appointment. Don't strain your eyes before coming in either. Scheduling an appointment at the end of a long day after staring at a screen is not recommended.

What are 5 procedures in a routine eye exam?

During a regular visit, you can expect your optometrist to perform the following tests to determine your eye health:
  • Pre-Exam Tests. ...
  • Pupillary Reactions. ...
  • Slit Lamp Test. ...
  • Visual Acuity and Refraction. ...
  • Pupil Dilation.

Should eyes be dilated before eye exam?

According to Mayo Clinic, dilating your eyes is the best way to ensure your doctor can fully examine your ocular health. You may not need to have your eyes dilated with each exam, however. Factors which determine the need for dilation include: Age — Seniors ages 60 and older should have an annual dilated eye exam.

Do tired eyes see worse?

Reasons why your eyes may go blurry at night can include: You are tired so your visual system is fatigued. You have a refractive error such as long-sightedness or astigmatism. During the day, you may be able to compensate for these, but when your eyes are tired, your vision can go blurry.

Do eyes need to rest?

Though we don't always think about it, our eyes need breaks from all that staring, scrolling, reading, and just plain seeing they do. And not just while you're asleep. When your eyes don't get enough rest, you know what happens. Your lids get heavy.

Why do my eyes feel so tired all the time?

Common causes of eyestrain include: Looking at digital device screens. Reading without pausing to rest your eyes. Driving long distances and doing other activities involving focusing for a long time.