What Does 20/20 Vision Mean During an Eye Exam?

At SPEX in Seattle, WA, Dr. Scott Campbell offers comprehensive eye exams that evaluate your visual clarity and overall eye health, including whether you have 20/20 vision. Understanding what this term means can help give you a better idea of your eye care and vision needs. Although we often hear the phrase 20/20 vision associated with having perfect vision, that doesn't tell the full story of what 20/20 really means. Keep reading to learn more about 20/20 vision and why it matters during your eye exam.

What does it mean to have 20/20 vision?

Simply put, 20/20 vision refers to the ability to see clearly at a distance of 20 feet, which is considered standard. If you have 20/20 vision, you can see what a person with normal vision can see at that distance. However, this doesn't mean your vision is flawless. The term 20/20 only measures visual acuity — meaning how sharp and clear your vision is — but it doesn't account for other important factors like peripheral vision, depth perception, or overall eye health. For example, a person with 20/40 vision sees at 20 feet what a person with normal vision can see at 40 feet. In contrast, someone with 20/15 vision can see objects at 20 feet that a person with normal vision would need to be closer to see clearly. In either case, however, the person may have trouble with their peripheral field of vision and other aspects of eye health.

Do they check for 20/20 during eye exams?

Checking for 20/20 vision and measuring your visual acuity during a comprehensive eye exam at SPEX helps Dr. Campbell determine whether you may need corrective lenses or other treatments to improve your vision. Even if you do have 20/20 vision on an eye test, there are other factors that should be regularly evaluated to ensure optimal eye health as a whole. Comprehensive eye exams go beyond measuring visual clarity and include testing for conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Additionally, patients with 20/20 vision might still need treatment for other issues, such as eye strain or dry eye.

Can 20/20 vision change over time?

Your vision can change over time due to factors like aging, lifestyle, or underlying medical conditions. Even if you have 20/20 vision now, it's still important to schedule regular eye exams. Conditions like presbyopia, which affects near vision as we age, can develop even in people who have always had clear distance vision. In some cases, issues like eye fatigue or headaches could signal that your vision is changing, even if you can still see clearly at a distance. Regular eye exams allow Dr. Campbell to monitor your eye health and detect vision changes early, ensuring you receive appropriate treatment and potentially avoid worsening symptoms.

What happens during an eye exam?

A comprehensive eye exam at SPEX includes a range of tests to evaluate both your vision and the overall health of your eyes. Dr. Campbell will assess your visual acuity to see if you have 20/20 vision or need corrective lenses, as well as look for any signs of potential eye diseases. While each eye exam is customized to meet the patient's specific needs, here are some general things you may expect during an eye exam:

• Visual acuity test
• Glaucoma screening
• Pupil dilation
• Retina examination

How can I keep 20/20 vision for longer?

Maintaining your eye health is key to preserving your vision for as long as possible. In addition to regular eye exams, there are a few steps you can take to protect your eyes, including:

• Wear sunglasses with UV protection
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet
• Take breaks during screen time
• Do not smoke
• Stay hydrated

These simple habits can help keep your eyes healthy and reduce the risk of long-term ocular and vision issues.

Keep your vision sharp with comprehensive eye exams in Seattle, WA

Whether you have 20/20 vision or need corrective lenses, it's important to maintain your eye health through regular comprehensive exams. At SPEX in Seattle, WA, Dr. Scott Campbell provides advanced eye care to help you see clearly and ensure your eyes are in great shape. Call our friendly team to schedule your eye exam today, and stay on top of your vision health for years to come.