Vision Screening is a series of tests that measure a person's ocular health and visual status, to detect abnormalities in the components of the visual system, and to determine how well the person can see.

 

Vision Screening is performed by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist to determine if there are any preexisting or potential vision problems. Vision screenings may also reveal the presence of many non-eye diseases. Many systemic diseases can affect the eyes, and since the blood vessels on the retina are observed during the exam, certain problems may be uncovered (e.g., high blood pressure or diabetes).

 

Infants should be examined by a physician to detect any physical abnormalities. Frequency of vision screenings then generally differs with age and the health of the person. Vision screenings can be performed in infants, and if a problem is noted the infant can be seen, generally by a pediatric ophthalmologist. A child with no symptoms should have an vision screening at age three. Early exams are important because permanent decreases in vision. Some patients have risk factors for eye disease (e.g., people with diabetes or a family history of eye disease and may need more frequent checkups. Also, if children seem to be having trouble in school, problems with reading, rubbing their eyes when reading, etc., a vision screening may be necessary sooner.

 

The examiner needs to know if the patient is taking any medications or has any existing health conditions. Some medications, even over-the-counter medications can affect vision or even interfere with the eye drops the doctor may use during the exam. Certain eye drops would not be used if the patient has asthma, heart problems, or other conditions.

 

The patient may need someone to drive them home in case the eyes were dilated. Bringing sunglasses to the screening may also help decrease the glare from light until the dilating drops wear off.