One of the eye care scans that is used for diagnosing optical conditions is an optical coherence tomography imaging test. This test, which is non-invasive, is used to take images of the retina. By using this diagnostic tool, an ophthalmologist or eye care professional can see the distinct layers of the retina.
In turn, he or she can measure the thickness. Doing so provides the doctor with the needed information to treat retinal conditions. Retinal diseases diagnosed with the imaging test include age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease.
Obtaining an Early Diagnosis
An OCT scan also permits the diagnosis of eye problems such as macular holes and optic nerve damage. The use of the imaging instrument makes it possible for early treatment of such conditions as wet macular degeneration, which can progress quickly if left untreated.
Therefore, the use of OCT scanning has become a standard of care for the evaluation and treatment of most retinal-related conditions. A beam of light is used to quickly scan the eye. In turn, the OCT displays an image of the retina’s tissue layers. By measuring the layers, eye doctors can determine what specific eye condition it is and it should be treated.
Are You Over 40 Years Old?
Most patients experience vision changes in their 40s. As a result, the OCT device can be quite helpful to anyone who is 40+ years of age. The imaging equipment takes a detailed 3D image and is one of the few devices that displays in-depth pictures of the internal structures of the eye.
What Happens During an Exam?
Undergoing an OCT test is not uncomfortable, as the assessment only takes a few seconds. Nothing touches the surface of your eyes when you look into the equipment, nor do you experience flashes of light or puffs of air. However, you may need to use eye drops to dilate the pupils to prepare for the exam.
How Often Should You Take the Test?
If you have not had your eyes checked lately, you owe it to yourself to schedule an OCT test. As we age, the retina changes in a manner that is not easily detected. Therefore, you need to have an OCT evaluation every couple of years along with an eye test. If you are over 40, you should consider having the OCT assessment yearly.
If you are experiencing the following symptoms, schedule an OCT exam immediately:
- Difficulty reading or working at an activity, such as sewing, that necessitates fine vision skills.
- Having a problem with seeing faces.
- Seeing empty or darkened patches at the centre of vision.
- Viewing straight lines as bent or wavy.
When you discover how simple it is to take an OCT exam, you will wonder why you were originally hesitant about making an appointment. Do not procrastinate, especially if you are having the above-listed symptoms or are experiencing any kind of vision difficulties.
