Retinal Imaging
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An Alternative to Dilation – No More Blurred VisionÂ
Retinal imaging is a safe and non-invasive imaging alternative to dilation that allows vision professionals to examine the back of the eye without blurring vision. The technology uses specialized scanners and cameras to magnify a patient’s retina, blood vessels, and optic nerves inside the eye.Â
At your appointment with Denver Vision, our doctors use state-of-the-art technology to gather detailed information about the thickness and structure of your retina. This helps them detect and manage eye health conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration.
Retinal Imaging: Purpose, Procedure, Risks, Results
Besides detecting diseases early, eye imaging provides a historical record of any future changes in your eyes. That’s because the doctors can compare the images side-by-side to detect subtle changes.
The retinal imaging process is quite simple. The healthcare provider will use special eye drops to dilate your pupils. Once dilated and the doctor has a better view of the retina, they will use one or more imaging technologies to capture a detailed image of your retina.
It’s a procedure that carries little to no risk. While some patients may experience light sensitivity after examination due to the effects of dilating eye drops, the symptoms usually resolve in a few hours. After the test, your doctor will review captured images to check for signs of eye diseases or other problems.
Who Gets This Test?
Retinal imaging can benefit many patients, including those at risk of developing eye diseases and those with existing eye conditions. Some of the people who benefit from retinal imaging include those with:
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- High blood pressure
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- Glaucoma
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- Retinal toxicity
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- Macular degeneration:
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- Diabetes, or
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- A family history of eye diseases
What Happens During the Test?
Retinal imaging tests take around five minutes. However, preparing for the examination will take about 10 to 20 minutes.
Once your pupils dilate, you’ll put your forehead and chin on support and stare straight at an object. During this time, a laser will scan your eyes and then upload it to your doctor’s computer.
What Happens After the Test?
After the image test, the doctor will review the captured images to check for signs of eye diseases or other problems. They may then prescribe treatment and explain expected outcomes.
It’s also important to note that you may need to wear sunglasses because your vision may be blurry for about 4 hours. You will also need someone to drive you home.
What Are the Benefits of Having Retinal Imaging
About 93 million people in the U.S.A. are at a high risk of vision loss. However, only half of these people have visited an eye doctor in the last year. Retinal imaging has many benefits, whether you are experiencing eye problems or not. Some of these benefits include:
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- Early detection of eye problems: This allows for early treatment to prevent vision loss or other complications.
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- Quick and easy: The whole process takes only a few minutes to complete.
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- Non-invasive: It’s a safe and painless way to examine the eye and detect potential problems.
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- Personalized care: Healthcare providers tailor treatment plans to patients’ individual needs based on the images captured.
Choose Denver Vision in Lakewood, CO for Eye Care
With eye problems rising, the demand for accurate and timely eye examinations has become more critical than ever. At Denver Vision, we specialize in providing comprehensive eye care services, including retinal imaging, to patients of all ages.
We believe that healthy eyes are essential to a healthy life. This is why we strive to help each patient achieve optimal eye health and vision. Contact us today to schedule your retinal imaging exam.
Featured Image: 4 PM Production / Shutterstock