What Is Retinal Imaging?
Retinal imaging helps your eye doctor better assess the health of your eyes by using a high-resolution camera to take magnified images or pictures of the back of your eye. The picture will show your retina, optic disk, and blood vessels. Your optometrist will be able to analyze the images to determine if certain eye diseases are present, as well as gain insight into your overall health by evaluating your blood vessels. Retinal images can be compared side by side over time to monitor your eye health and detect subtle changes. Your optometrist may review the images with you so you can have a better understanding of your condition, which ensures a certain level of precision to your routine exam.
The Importance Of A Retinal Exam
A retinal exam not only ensures your eyes are in optimal health, but can also detect other health conditions going on that you might not be aware of. Retinal imaging allows your optometrist to see the back of your eye in detail. Some of the first signs of cancer, stroke, and diabetes can be evident in the retina of your eye. Very often, these diseases will become apparent in the retina long before symptoms begin to present. A retinal exam not only promotes your eye health and vision but also ensures that your overall health is in order.
How Does Retinal Imaging Work?
During your comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist will administer eye drops to dilate your pupils. You will then be placed in front of a camera with your chin upon a rest. The camera will take photos of your eyes as you sit for a couple of minutes. Your optometrist will then look at the results of the images to determine if there are any signs of disease or poor eye function. The eye doctor will then discuss the results with you and determine if you require treatment to improve your vision and eye health.
Calgary Retinal Imaging
Technological advancements allow optometrists to use high-resolution imaging to accurately and quickly diagnose several eye diseases with retinal imaging. Patients now have the ability to receive proper treatment right away to help ensure their eye condition does not progress and worsen. Catching conditions before they can progress is important to avoid permanent side effects. Retinal imaging tests are fast and painless, and results are seen almost immediately. The results can also be stored to be compared with future images.
Our SE Calgary optometry clinic located just off of Blackfoot Trail can help you rule out any disease or eye conditions and develop treatment options to relieve your aggravating symptoms and help you see clearly with our advanced retinal imaging. Our SE Calgary optometrists are here for you; book an eye exam with us today!
FAQ
Q: Is retinal imaging included in a comprehensive eye exam?
A: Most eye clinics offer retinal imaging as a standard during a comprehensive eye exam.
Q: Does retinal imaging hurt?
A: Retinal imaging is non-invasive and does not cause any pain or discomfort to the patient.
Q: How often should I visit the eye doctor?
A: Adults aged 18-64 should visit their optometrist once every two years. Adults 65+ are recommended to visit their eye doctor annually.
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