What is a refraction test in an eye exam?

What is a refraction test in an eye exam?

A refraction is an eye exam that measures a person’s prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Normal vision occurs when light is focused directly on the retina rather than in front or behind it.

How is a refraction assessment done?

During a refraction assessment, your doctor asks you to look through a masklike device (phoropter) that contains wheels that hold lenses of different strengths to help determine which combination gives you the sharpest vision.

Are eyes dilated for refraction?

1 A dilated eye exam allows the doctor to measure the degree of light refraction. Another aspect of dilation is that it may help determine your true refractive error because it stops your eye from focusing, This can be helpful for your corrective lens prescription.

What happens during refraction?

refraction, in physics, the change in direction of a wave passing from one medium to another caused by its change in speed. For example, waves travel faster in deep water than in shallow.

Can you drive yourself home after an eye exam?

In most cases, the average patient will be able to drive immediately after an eye exam. Your vision is slightly blurred after dilation but it does not affect them much.

How does refraction affect your vision?

Refractive errors are a type of vision problem that makes it hard to see clearly. They happen when the shape of your eye keeps light from focusing correctly on your retina (a light-sensitive layer of tissue in the back of your eye). Refractive errors are the most common type of vision problem.

What can you not do when your eyes are dilated?

Besides avoiding driving, other precautions you should take after having your eyes dilated include: Don’t hang out in the sun: You should never look directly at the sun as it can damage your eyes. After dilation, this is even more important to remember.