What not to do before an eye exam?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

Before an eye exam, there are a few things that you should avoid doing in order to ensure the most accurate and comfortable examination possible. Here are some things you should avoid:

1. Don’t overexert your eyes: It’s important to give your eyes a rest before your eye exam. Avoid activities that strain your eyes, such as reading small print or staring at a computer screen for long periods of time. Resting your eyes will help ensure that they are in optimal condition for the exam.

2. Don’t forget your glasses and contacts: If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure to bring them with you to your eye exam. Your optometrist may need to assess your vision with and without corrective lenses, so it’s important to have them on hand.

3. Don’t drink coffee or alcohol: Both coffee and alcohol can affect the accuracy of your eye exam. Coffee can cause your pupils to dilate, which can affect the measurements taken by your optometrist. Alcohol, on the other hand, can cause dryness and irritation in the eyes. It’s best to avoid these substances before your exam to ensure accurate results.

4. Don’t forget your insurance documents: If you have vision insurance, make sure to bring your insurance card or any necessary documents to your eye exam. This will help streamline the billing process and ensure that you receive any applicable coverage.

5. Don’t feel nervous or intimidated: It’s common to feel a bit nervous before an eye exam, especially if you’re unsure of what to expect. However, it’s important to remember that your optometrist is there to help you and answer any questions you may have. Don’t hesitate to voice any concerns or ask for clarification during the exam.

By avoiding overexertion of your eyes, remembering to bring your glasses and contacts, refraining from consuming coffee or alcohol, bringing your insurance documents, and maintaining a calm and relaxed mindset, you can ensure a smooth and successful eye exam.