Screening is done to find a health problem early and treat it. Tests are usually given to people who do not have symptoms but who may be at high risk for the health problem.
Screening Guidelines
Ask your doctor when you should be screened. Healthy adults who are not at risk for eye disease may be screened:
- At least once between age 20 to 29
- At least twice between age 30 to 39
- Age 40 to 64: every 2 to 4 years
- Age 65 and older: every 1 to 2 years
You may need to be screened more often if you:
- Have risk factors for cataracts, glaucoma, or other eye problems
- Have a personal or family history of eye problems
- Have had a serious eye injury in the past
- Had eye surgery in the past
- Are taking a corticosteroid medicine
- Have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic illness
Screening Tests
A full eye exam screens for cataracts. The exam may have a:
- Visual acuity test —This eye chart test measures how well you see distances.
- Dilated eye exam —You will be given eye drops to widen your pupil. This will let the doctor see your lens and the back of the eye.
- Tonometry —This test measures fluid pressure in your eye. Too much may be a sign of glaucoma.
- Slit lamp exam —This test uses a microscope to get a better view at the eye.
Last reviewed December 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review BoardJames P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated: 2/13/2019
