Eye Examination Specialist
Eye Associates of North Atlanta, LLC
Anand K. Shah, M.D.
Board-Certified Ophthalmologist & Cataract Surgeon located in Alpharetta, GA
Routine, comprehensive eye exams are essential to maintaining optimum eye health and detecting vision problems at their earliest, most treatable stage. Dr. Anand K. Shah is a board certified ophthalmologist, providing superior eye examinations for teens and adults of all ages at Eye Associates of North Atlanta, LLC, located in Alpharetta, Georgia. Patients in Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, and the surrounding areas can book an appointment online or call the office today.
Eye Examination Q & A
Why are eye exams necessary?
Eye examinations help detect and identify potential vision problems early. This is important because some vision problems, such as glaucoma, don’t cause symptoms until vision loss has already occurred. Early detection enables immediate treatment that can prevent complications such as:
- Eye disease
- Vision loss
- Eye pain
Routine eye exams are especially crucial in protecting the vision of patients who are more prone to eye or vision issues, such as individuals with diabetes.
How often do I need an eye exam?
Most patients should have a comprehensive eye examination annually. However, the frequency may differ depending on your:
- Age
- Preexisting health conditions
- Risk level for eye-related problems
What does a comprehensive eye examination entail?
Dr. Shah begins each eye examination by performing a thorough history and discussing any symptoms you’re experiencing. Next, he’ll perform a series of tests to evaluate all aspects of your eyes and vision. This includes:
- Visual acuity
- Eye movement
- Pressure within your eyes
- Testing your central and peripheral vision
- Dilating your eyes and looking at both the front and back of the eyes to evaluate for a multitude of eye conditions, including, but not limited to, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration
A comprehensive examination with Dr. Shah lasts about 1 hour, and at the end of the examination, he will be sure to explain his findings and answer all of your questions.
Will my eyes be dilated?
Yes. Dilation allows Dr. Shah to gain a better view of your eye's internal structures. Dilating drops typically take about 20 to 30 minutes to become effective. Once that occurs, Dr. Shah uses various instruments to look inside your eyes. The effects of dilating drops, which include sensitivity to light, can last for up to several hours.
What is a refraction test?
A refraction test is used to determine your level of farsightedness, nearsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia in order to select an eyeglass prescription. During this procedure, Dr. Shah places an instrument known as a phoropter in front of your eyes and tests a series of lens choices. He’ll then ask you which lenses offer the clearest vision. Based on your response, he’ll continue to fine-tune the lens power to determine the most effective prescription.