Can I test my eyesight online?

Things looking a little blurry? Squinting at your computer screen constantly? Before heading to an eye doctor, try an online test to see if it can help.

According to the Doctors of Optometry Canada, adults between the ages of 19 and 64 should have an eye exam at least every two years. Those with diabetes should have an exam done annually.

And while an online eye sight test certainly doesn’t replace a formal exam conducted by an ophthalmologist or optometrist, it can give you an inkling about your vision quality and allow you to follow up with an eye doctor.

These tests are simple in nature and can be done at your computer or on a handheld device. They’re designed to give you an indication on if you have a depth perception issue with your eyes (maybe you’re nearsighted or farsighted), or you have an astigmatism or any other eye-related health conditions.

Once again, after conducting a test such as these, you should follow up with an eye exam at your family doctor, your ophthalmologist or optometrist’s office.

There are a variety of tests including a near or distant vision test, an age-related macular degeneration test and more.

The exams work like this: To see if you’re nearsighted, for example, stand about six feet back from your computer and remove your contact lenses or eye glasses (if you already wear them). Cover your left eye and read the rows of letters, writing them down with your right hand as you go row by row. Then, do the same test with your right hand.

Once you’re finished, if you could read all the rows, your vision is 20/20; but if you missed any letters, you may need to follow up with a formal examination in a physician’s office.

Other signs that you might need to follow up is if your eyes feel tired, painful, or you have double vision or headaches.

Yes. While websites with eye health tests are helpful, you can also try an app available on your handheld device. Many of these apps are free.