Comprehensive Eye Exam

Atkinson Family Eye Care: John Atkinson, O.D., PLLC

Optometry located in Kannapolis, NC

Basic eye exams check for visual acuity, but a comprehensive eye exam is the only way to detect glaucoma and other eye conditions that have no early warning signs or symptoms. Dr. Atkinson and the skilled team at Atkinson Family Eye Care in Kannapolis, North Carolina, use state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to evaluate your eyes carefully. If you are looking for a comfortable eye exam in a friendly environment, call or email the office, or schedule an appointment online.

Comprehensive Eye Exam Q & A

What should I expect during a comprehensive eye exam?

When you have an eye exam at Atkinson Family Eye Care, Dr. Atkinson will be with you every step of the way to ensure all tests are performed correctly and that he has all available information concerning the health of your eyes.

Because there are several tests to be performed, a comprehensive exam can take anywhere from 45-90 minutes depending on the condition of your eyes. After you complete a detailed medical and family history evaluation form, Dr. Atkinson and his professional team will perform tests to assess the following:

  • Visual acuity
  • Eye pressure
  • Eye pupil reaction
  • Peripheral vision
  • Eye muscle function
  • Eye surface health
  • Retina and optic nerve health

Dr. Atkinson uses OptosⓇ retinal imaging to view your retinas without dilation so that you can drive immediately following your appointment.

When your exam is complete, Dr. Atkinson will spend time discussing your results, answering questions and reviewing options should you need prescription eyewear or treatment for an eye condition.

What conditions can a comprehensive eye exam detect?

A comprehensive eye exam checks for problems with visual acuity, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. If you need vision correction, Dr. Atkinson uses autorefraction technology to determine your prescription with precision.

Some of the other conditions that can be detected during your exam include:

  • Glaucoma
  • Diabetes
  • Cataracts
  • Cornea damage
  • Macular degeneration
  • Dry eye disease

The advanced diagnostic tools at Atkinson Family Eye Care are designed to detect the earliest signs of disease or damage, ensuring you have the best possible chance for successful treatment of many debilitating eye conditions.

How often should I have a comprehensive eye exam?

The American Optometric Association recommends that adults between the ages of 18-64 have an eye exam at least every two years. If you wear glasses or contacts, are 65 or older, or you have additional factors that put your eyes at risk for eye-related health concerns, you should have a comprehensive exam every year.

Some factors that can increase your risk include:

  • A family history of ocular disease
  • Diabetes
  • Eye injury
  • Jobs that require protective eyewear

If you notice any changes to your vision, sensitivity to light, or pain around your eyes, you should schedule an eye exam right away.

Atkinson Family Eye Care accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance plans. For more information, call or email the office, or make an appointment online.