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Home » Our Optometry Clinic » Eye Health Library » Eye Exams » Common Tests

Common Tests

eye doctor with scopeWhile there are some basic eye vision tests common to most eye exams, children and young adults have different vision testing needs than say, a healthy middle-aged adult, or an adult with a history of eye problems.

Vision testing equipment ranges from simple tools like the “Big E” eye chart (Snellen Chart) and a hand-held penlight and eye cover, to more complex devices that swap lenses in front of your eyes or use special lamps to view the eye’s structure. A comprehensive eye exam includes vision testing, and vision testing equipment that is common to almost all eye exams, but is often tailored to your age, your specific need, or your individual symptoms. The following are some common tests you may be given during a routine eye exam.  

 

(Special thanks to the EyeGlass Guide, for informational material that aided in the creation of this website. Visit the EyeGlass Guide today!)

  • Autorefractor
    Autorefractors are machines that automatically determine the correct lens prescription for your eyes. 
  • Eye Dilation
    Eye dilation means your pupil in front of the eye has been opened using special drops.
  • Glaucoma Test
    Glaucoma testing involves measuring internal eye pressure and a detailed scan of the retina for signs of disease.
  • Ophthalmoscope
    An ophthalmoscope is a handheld device used to examine your eye’s interior structure, including the retina.
  • Optomap
    Optomap® is new technology that allows for detailed retina examination without dilating pupils. 
  • Peripheral Vision Test
    Peripheral vision testing is the part of the eye exam that tests the “outside” of your vision.
  • Phoropter
    A phoropter is an instrument used to test individual lenses on each eye during an exam.
  • Puffer Test
    A puffer test is a specific form of glaucoma testing measuring eye pressure (intraocular pressure).
  • Retinoscope
    Retinoscopy is a procedure using a retinoscope that helps to see if you need a prescription.
  • Slit Lamp Exam
    A slit lamp exam is a magnified analysis of your eye from front to back.
  • Snellen Chart
    The “Big E” chart—or Snellen eye chart—is the most familiar type of visual acuity test.
  • Vision Screening
    Vision testing and vision screening can each be a window of opportunity for healthy sight - find out how they are different.
  • Vision Testing
    Vision testing includes vision testing equipment and procedures that either measure or gauge your visual ability, or look closely at specific structures of the eye.

BIG NEWS!

We’ll soon be “Eyes on Main”! And that’s not the only news... please offer a warm welcome to Dr. Mike Gowen.

From Dr. J:

I opened my office in 1990 – That’s 30 years coming up on August 1st!!   In some ways it feels like yesterday, and in others, like forever.  Along with so much else that has changed this year, one more occasion is on the horizon.  I am excited to announce that I am selling my practice to Dr. Mike Gowen.  Dr. G and his wife, SallyAnn, met at Virginia Tech close to 40 years ago. They have been proud and loud Hokies ever since and dreamed of returning to live in Blacksburg.  Both are strong supporters of the arts, athletics and the civic engagement that make this a very special place to live, work and play!

I am thrilled to be handing the baton to a doctor who believes as I do in community service. Plus, he is laser focused also on individualized patient care, personal and professional intellectual advancement and enjoying the good things and kind people who come along every day.

Better yet, I’m not going anywhere!  I will continue seeing patients, focusing on visual rehab for those suffering from concussions/TBI, working to control the progression and consequences of nearsightedness through orthokeratology and other treatments, and counseling all regarding the inter-relation of the eyes, brain and body, along with the importance of nutrition, exercise and mental well-being.  There’s so much I yet want to learn and do, and now I won’t have to worry about arguing with insurance companies.  I’m excited!

From Dr. G:

It’s impossible to express how pleased I am to be moving to Blacksburg. It has long been the dream of my wife and I to become a part of this unique town, where we met as Virginia Tech students and continued to frequent as alumni.    I look forward to the privilege of serving the people of Blacksburg and bringing my lifetime of experience in the field of eye care to serve one and all. I'm delighted that Dr. Steve Jacobs will remain with the practice, which will now be “EYES on Main.” I consider it a great privilege to continue the exemplary patient care and community service that Dr. Jacobs has and will continue to provide to the New River Valley. Together we will serve the Blacksburg community with the same culture of care and community involvement that has always been a part of this practice.

 More updates to follow.  Send us a message or give us a call with questions, comments, or to set up an appointment.

We can always be reached at 540-953-0136!

Sincerely,Dr. J, Dr. S, Dr. G & staff