Your Eye Doctor Can Use OCT To Screen For These Serious Eye Conditions

What An Eye Doctor Looks For At An OCT Scan

Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a collection of eye conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve, typically due to increased pressure within the eye. Glaucoma develops without any signs until the condition has progressed to the point where damage affects the vision and is irreversible. To detect glaucoma early and protect the optic nerve, eye doctors need to look inside the eye during an eye exam. An OCT scan will show a detailed and close-up view of the optic nerve so that your eye doctor can look for indications of glaucoma. To learn more about OCT scans and their role in the early detection of glaucoma, read World Glaucoma Week: How OCT Can Aid In The Early Diagnosis Of Glaucoma.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Referred to as AMD, this condition affects the back of the central part of the retina called the macula. This eye condition affects central vision and it tends not to present symptoms until permanent damage has been done. AMD is largely caused by the development of deposits of lipids and proteins within the eye called drusen. Your optometrist can identify drusen during an OCT scan eye exam and can assess how many deposits you have, how that may affect your vision, and how to slow the development of AMD. To learn more about AMD, read AMD Awareness Month: Am I At Risk For Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Diabetic Retinopathy
This condition can develop in anyone who has type 1 or type 2 diabetes, although it is most likely to develop in people who are not controlling their diabetes. When blood sugar levels are too high, it can cause damage to the blood vessels within the eye. Diabetic retinopathy can trigger blood vessel blockages or leaks, which can cause new, abnormal blood vessels to form. An OCT scan allows eye doctors to detect any blood vessel leaks or any abnormal blood vessels and gives the eye doctor the opportunity to diagnose this condition early. Early diagnosis allows your eye doctor to work with you to get your diabetes under control and prevent the progression of diabetic retinopathy. To learn more about eye care when living with diabetes, read The Importance Of Diabetic Eye Exams.

Retina And Macula Issues
OCT scans can show the back of your eye so your eye doctor can see any issues in your retina or macula, including:

• Retinal detachment (partial or full)
• Retinal tear
• Retinal cysts
• Macular hole
• Macular pucker
• Macular edema (blood vessels leaking into the macula)
• Other forms of retinopathy, such as central serous retinopathy or hypertensive retinopathy

OCT Scans From A Calgary Eye Doctor

OCT scans are an important part of eye health and they should be performed during a comprehensive eye exam. Your optometrist will use the information and images from your OCT scan to check your current eye health as well as to monitor your eye health over time. Monitoring for eye conditions early is incredibly important for preserving eye health for years to come and preventing vision loss. For OCT scans, contact the Calgary eye doctors at Specs in the City for a comprehensive eye exam. Our Calgary staff will discuss your eye health and overall health history with you and will assess all eye conditions as well as determine your prescription. To schedule an appointment, contact Specs in the City Optometry at 1-403-252-2020 or fill out the online contact form.

FAQ

Q: Does an OCT scan hurt?
A: Not at all. All you need to do is have a few photos taken of your eyes and then your eye doctor will examine these images.

Q: Do I need an OCT scan every year?
A: Not necessarily, but this will depend on your age, your eye health, and any predispositions to eye conditions. Some people will only need an OCT scan every 2 to 3 years but if you have any of the above-listed eye conditions or if you are over 40, you should probably have an OCT scan every year. Your eye doctor can give an answer more tailored to your specific circumstances.

Q: Is an OCT scan related to my prescription?
A: No, an OCT scan is used to look at the health of your eye and is not involved with determining prescription. Your eye doctor will administer other tests to determine your eyeglasses prescription.