Technology is such a wonderful thing, especially when it is being used in detecting and treating diseases. Retinal imaging, for instance, has been helpful in catching a variety of eye diseases such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, and more.

Retinal imaging involves a fast and painless method of viewing the inside of the eyes and capturing various images that could indicate vision or other health problems.

Spectrum Eye Care, your trusted local optometrist, shares more information about the different eye diseases that can be detected through retinal imaging.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma causes damage to the optic nerve, which is typically a result of high pressure or compression on the blood vessels in the eye. Through retinal imaging, eye doctors can see the appearance of the optic nerve and any damage to it. The images can show the thickness of the nerve fiber layer. And with glaucoma, this layer of fiber usually has some thinning. Early detection of glaucoma is important because the disease can lead to permanent and immutable vision loss.

Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina pulls away from its normal position. This is actually a medical emergency that requires quick treatment. Otherwise, the risk of vision loss could be high. Symptoms of retinal detachment include the sudden appearance of floaters as well as flashes in one or both eyes. Reduced peripheral vision is also another red flag. Retinal imaging captures the vitreous floaters, helping eye doctors diagnose the problem.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic patients are often at risk of retinal damage. Fortunately, with retinal imaging, early signs of diabetic retinopathy can be detected. Some symptoms that could indicate this condition are blurred and fluctuating vision, dark areas in vision, floaters, and vision loss. Apart from performing an eye exam, ophthalmologists typically check for the formation of new blood vessels in the eye or swelling or leakage from the retinal blood vessels.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

With the help of retinal imaging, symptoms of age-related macular degeneration can be detected. These include fluid leakage and bleeding in the rear of the eye.

Spectrum Eye Care strives to provide the highest quality of vision care and service to every patient. We offer a variety of optical services eye exams, LASIK eye surgery, dry eye treatment, and more. Call us at (704) 543-9000 or fill out our contact form to request an appointment.