You’ve probably seen the ads: “Get your vision tested online in just minutes!” With people doing everything on their devices nowadays, from ordering groceries to attending virtual appointments, it’s no surprise that online eye exams are becoming more popular. However, it’s important to understand that these exams are not a replacement for a comprehensive eye exam performed by an eye care professional.
At best, they can measure how well you see, but they fall short when it comes to detecting early signs of serious eye conditions or underlying health issues. A full in-person eye exam with your optometrist is still the most reliable way to protect your vision and overall eye health.
Let’s look at the differences between online and in-person eye exams and why seeing an eye doctor in person is still crucial.
What is an online eye exam?
An online eye exam is typically a vision screening that checks how well you can see. Using your computer or phone, you’ll read letters on a screen or respond to prompts that test your distance and near vision. Some websites may even generate an eyeglasses or contact lens prescription without ever stepping into a doctor’s office.
However, they fall short in many critical areas. Online eye exams:
- Do not examine the internal or external health of your eyes
- Cannot detect early signs of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration
- Do not assess how your eyes work together or track movement
- Cannot detect signs of systemic health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or even certain neurological conditions
What is a comprehensive eye exam?
A comprehensive eye exam, like the ones we provide at Lemoncelli Eyecare, goes beyond how clearly you see. It includes a full evaluation of your overall eye health, looking for signs of eye diseases and other issues that often don’t show symptoms in the early stages.
During an in-person exam, we check for:
- Visual acuity and prescription updates
- Eye alignment and tracking issues
- Binocular vision problems
- Signs of dry eye, allergies, or infections
- Early indicators of diseases like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration
- Clues to underlying systemic conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders
We can detect conditions that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated, and they can’t be diagnosed during an online eye exam.
How accurate are online eye exams?
Online eye exams may give you a rough idea of your vision, but they’re not always reliable when it comes to accuracy. Factors like screen resolution, lighting, device settings, and user error can all affect your results.
And even if you do get a prescription from an online test, there’s no guarantee it will be precise or tailored to your unique visual needs. Your eyes deserve more than a one-size-fits-all approach.
When convenience could cost you
We understand life gets busy, and convenience matters. But skipping a comprehensive eye exam could mean missing a serious eye condition that’s silently developing.
During our comprehensive eye exams in Nashville, TN, we take the time to assess not just how well you see, but how healthy your eyes truly are. We also get to know you, including your lifestyle, your work, and your hobbies, so we can recommend glasses, contact lenses, or other solutions tailored to your exact needs. A personalized exam at Lemoncelli Eyecare ensures that your prescription is accurate, your glasses fit properly, and any specific concerns (like headaches, eye strain, or blurry vision at certain distances) are addressed directly.
The bottom line
Online eye exams may be tempting, but they’re no substitute for the care you’ll get from a licensed optometrist. Think of them more like a simple screening, not a full checkup.
If it’s been a while since your last eye exam, we’re here for you. At Lemoncelli Eyecare in Nashville, we make it easy to get the personalized attention your eyes deserve without rushing you through. Book your next visit with Lemoncelli Eyecare today!