There are many reasons a person might avoid getting an eye exam. While a busy schedule or the belief they do not need an exam are commonly cited excuses, many people also have a fear associated with the optometry chair.
A nationwide survey commissioned by Lighthouse International, the world-renowned nonprofit organization in New York that seeks to prevent vision loss and treat those affected, confirmed that 86% of those who already have an eye disease do not get routine exams. For many of these individuals, a fear of going to the eye doctor is the culprit.
Why be afraid? Here are some comon reasons:
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Glaucoma tests: Glaucoma is a condition of increased pressure within the eyeball, causing gradual loss of sight. The glaucoma test checks eye pressure in a variety of ways, including the “puff of air” and Non-Contact Tonometry test (NCT).
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Light tests -Light sensitivity, also known as photophobia, is an extreme intolerance of light. People may experience severe discomfort when exposed to bright lights. How do we test for this?
The Fundus Camera: a device that captures a high resolution photo of the back of the eye. While the flash is bright, it is quick, and allows the optometrist to better examine the retina.
- The Biomicroscope: also known as a Slit-lamp, it's a light instrument that the optometrist shines into the patient’s eye. The slit-lamp allows the doctor to get a highly magnified view of the structures of the eye to evaluate for any signs of infection or disease. -
Confirmation of a prescription change and general change in vision status.
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The possibility of needing glasses and/or contact lenses.
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Potential eye disease and/or medical issues; i.e glaucoma, cancer of the eye, retinal tear, dry eye, etc. - while it is obviously best to know if you have any of these conditions, some people are afraid to find out. In their eyes, ignorance is bliss.
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Ommetaphobia: is a general fear of eyes (yes, there is a phobia for just about everything). People with this phobia will get squeamish about the thought of an eye exam.
So how do you convince someone with one or more of these fears to get an eye exam? While there is no simple solution to overcoming these eye care related fears, there are actions you can take to help relieve some of the stress related to seeing the optometrist.
How can I relieve nervousness leading up to, and during, an eye exam?
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Be prepared for your exam - take time the night before your scheduled exam to think about what you will need to bring, and have it ready. . For example, your health card should be in your wallet where you can easily find it along with (if you wear them) any glasses or contact lenses.
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Ask questions - asking questions about what tests will be performed and understanding the procedure can help ease anxiety before an exam. Understanding the purpose of each test can you mentally prepare and avoid any surprises during the exam.
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Deep breathing exercises - deep breathing before and during an eye exam can relieve some stress, as it does in other situations. Deep breathing may also prevent eye pressure from rising due to stress about the exam.
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