A person should have their eyes examined by an optometrist every two years or every year after the age of 60, to determine whether they need to wear prescription eyeglasses. Also, If any of the following symptoms occur, then an eye exam needs to be scheduled.

* If a person is having a hard time focusing in on objects.

* If the eyes are red or swollen for unknown reasons.

* If unusual headaches reoccur while reading, watching television or working on a computer.

There are several different tests performed by an optometrist during a routine eye exam to determine whether prescription eyeglasses are needed.

A glaucoma test is a simple, painless test. Glaucoma is a build up of fluid in the eye that causes the retina to have pressure. Glaucoma doesn’t really have any symptoms, but over time can cause total vision loss.

A peripheral vision test determines the degree of side vision that a person has.

Then there is the Visual Acuity test, which is the test that determines one ability to distinguish letter, shapes and number in various sizes and from various distances.

There are three professions that work with the eyes.

An Optometrist examines the eyes for diseases and medical conditions. They are licensed to dispense prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and any needed medications.

An ophthalmologist is an eye doctor that can perform any needed eye surgeries. They work very closely with the optometrist.

An Optician is a person that makes the lenses, frames and contact lenses. They analyze the prescription that the Optometrist has given. They assist with fitting frames and lenses.

If the exam concludes that prescription eyeglasses are needed, the optometrist will then either help you decide which frames and lenses best suits your specific needs, or refer you to an optician.