Why You Should Skip Online Eye Tests and Go for a Comprehensive Eye Exam Instead
Let’s be honest—online eye tests can seem super convenient. You take a quick test from the comfort of your couch, and boom, you get a prescription for new glasses or contacts. Sounds great, right? But here’s the catch: these online tests are NOT a substitute for a comprehensive eye exam. In fact, they could be putting your eye health at risk without you even knowing it.
What You’re Missing with Online Tests
When it comes to your eye health, a quick online check just doesn’t cut it. The American Optometric Association (AOA) and experienced doctors of optometry are committed to ensuring you get the best possible care—something that can only happen with an in-person, comprehensive eye exam.
Sure, those online apps might give you a prescription for glasses or contacts, but they’re not capable of diagnosing or catching any of the serious health issues an eye doctor can spot. During a full eye exam, your optometrist checks things like glaucoma, infections, and even health conditions that could affect your eyes, like hypertension, stroke, and diabetes. These conditions can be tricky because they often don’t show any obvious signs or symptoms early on.
Why In-Person Exams Are a Game-Changer
Doctors of optometry use advanced technology during in-person eye exams to see more and detect more than any app could. It's not just about updating your prescription. A comprehensive eye exam helps ensure your eyes are healthy and can catch issues before they become serious problems.
Online tests might give you a prescription, but they can’t provide the full picture of your eye health. Here’s what a comprehensive eye exam can do that an online test simply can’t:
Review your medical history
Check visual acuity (how clearly you see)
Screen for color blindness
Assess your binocular vision (how your eyes work together)
Perform a cover test to check for eye alignment
Conduct retinoscopy to check for refractive errors
Evaluate refraction for an accurate prescription
Diagnose dry eyes and other conditions
Use a slit lamp exam to look at the health of your eye structures
Check for glaucoma and other serious conditions
Dilate your pupils for a closer look at the retina and optic nerve
And more!
Online Tests Just Don’t Cut It
While online tests may offer some peace of mind with a prescription for glasses or contacts, they can’t detect the 12 critical things a doctor of optometry will examine during a comprehensive, in-person exam. This could mean you’re missing out on early detection of serious issues that could impact your vision or overall health.
The takeaway? There’s no app for eye health. Nothing beats the thorough care you get from a skilled optometrist who uses advanced technology to assess and protect your eyes. So next time you think about taking an online test, remember: your eyes deserve the full, professional care that only a comprehensive eye exam can provide.
