Vision Tests

Color Vision Tests

What To Think About

• Eye charts that use pictures or symbols (such as an E chart) may be needed to test children or people who cannot read. Vision tests are also available for babies and young children.
• Routine vision testing is usually a part of every general physical examination during childhood. Schedule routine vision checks and eye examinations with an ophthalmologist or optometrist. For more information, see the topic Nearsightedness (Myopia).
  • Eye examinations for babies
  • Eye examinations for children and teenagers
  • Eye examinations for adults
• A complete eye and vision evaluation also includes a physical examination of the structures inside the eye. For more information, see the medical test Ophthalmoscopy.
• A test to screen for increased intraocular pressure (IOP), which increases your risk for glaucoma, is often part of a routine eye examination. It also is used to monitor treatment for glaucoma. Tonometry can be used to determine whether a medicine is keeping your IOP below a set target pressure determined by your doctor. For more information, see the medical test Tonometry.
• Home tests for near vision in adults and distance vision in children are available. These tests should not replace a thorough eye examination by a health professional.

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Author:	Alison Allen	Last Updated: August 16, 2007
Medical Review:	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine Ian MacDonald, MDCM, FRCSC - Ophthalmology Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine
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