3 Eye Diseases That Can Be Detected Through Retinal Imaging

• Kelly McGahen
• 3 years ago
• Categories: eye care services
• Tags: eye exam, retinal imaging

Through routine eye exams, the early symptoms of eye conditions can be detected and treated before symptoms progress. As a rule of thumb, patients with no known risk factors for retinal diseases see their eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam every two years. 

Keep in mind that the accuracy of eye examinations depends on the technology used. If you have no risk factors for developing certain eye conditions, conventional eye examinations should be enough. But, if you have a family history of certain diseases or several risk factors, it’s highly recommended that you undergo retinal imaging. 

What Is Retinal Imaging? 

Digital retinal imaging involves the use of high-resolution imaging to take pictures of your retina, the light-sensitive tissue layer at the back of your eye. Doctors can use these pictures to detect eye conditions and treat them before they progress to the late stages. Remember: The earlier eye conditions are detected and treated, the better the chances for recovery. 

What Are the Eye Diseases That Can Be Detected Through Digital Retinal Imaging? 

Here’s an overview of the diseases that can be detected by digital retinal imaging? 

• Glaucoma – Glaucoma can occur at any age, but it’s more common in older adults, particularly those aged over 60. In fact, it’s one of the leading causes of blindness for this age group. Diagnosing glaucoma can be tricky because it produces few symptoms during the early stages of the disease. However, it can be detected earlier on through digital retinal imaging, which can produce high-resolution images of the optic nerve and the extent of the damage done by glaucoma. 
• Diabetic Retinopathy – Diabetes can also affect the blood vessels in the retina, potentially causing vision loss in diabetic patients. Through digital retinal imaging, your low-vision specialist can look for newly formed blood vessels in the eye or leakage from retinal blood vessels. 
• Eye Cancer –  Digital retinal eye imaging can detect early signs of certain forms of eye cancer. For instance, dark spots can be a sign of melanoma. 

Joel H McGahen OD offers a wide range of professional eye care services, including digital retinal imaging as well as prescription contact lenses. To schedule an appointment, call us at (717) 264-4012 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in  Shippensburg and Greencastle, PA, as well as the surrounding communities in Pennsylvania.