We all
value our eyesight, but too often take it for granted. That
is why it is vital to have the health of the eyes evaluated
on a regular basis. Most internal eye problems are
silent to the patient, unless an infection is present, or
physical damage has occurred. Detecting problems at early
stages can often allow for effective treatment and avoid vision
loss. The doctor needs to look through the pupil at the back
of the eye, the retina, to check and see if it is healthy
and showing no signs of damage or disease. This may be done
by performing the Optomap Retinal Exam. As an alternative,
the pupils may be dilated using drops. This allows the doctor
to view the internal fluid and the lens in the eye for integrity.
Common conditions are: Retinal tears or detachments, Flashes
and Floaters, ARMD, Cataracts and Glaucoma. Viewing the blood
vessels in the eye can lead to early detection of such conditions
as Hypertension and Diabetes, and lead to referral for special
medical care.
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Picture of Healthy
Eye |
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Patient
with Diabetes |
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Patient
with Retinal Detachment |
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The external health of the eye can be equally important
and those structures in and around the eye are viewed with
the use of a binocular microscope. Common problems are:
Inflammation or Infection of any portion of the front of
the eye, Dryness or Allergies, Abrasions or Foreign material.
Another instrument, called a corneal topographer, may be
used to provide a “map” of
any surface irregularities, helping diagnose a condition
called kerataconus.
