For the health of your eyes, it is important to have periodic examinations of your visual function and ocular anatomy, even if your eyes “seem fine.” Some conditions, such as glaucoma, can be a silent threat to cause permanent visual loss. Since such conditions do not have any obvious warning symptoms, the only way they can be detected early is by careful examination. Early detection of such conditions provides the best chance at preventing loss of vision.
A routine eye exam includes refraction if needed, which can determine if you are nearsighted or farsighted and/or if you have any astigmatism. If so, you will be given a prescription for glasses to take to an optical shop of your choice.