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Going to the optician is an experience that has changed significantly in the last few years, and while we’ve been able to record ocular health relatively accurately for quite a few years, never has the technology been so efficient and precise. The new Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT) offers a way of scanning in 3D, giving the specialist an incredible three dimensional cross-section of the back of your eye. Using this image the optometrist can detect the early onset of associated diseases and also get a clear picture of the optical health. Who Should Have an OCT Eye Scan? Everyone over the age of 50 is advised to book in for this examination. It is an excellent screening tool and, if it is there to access, you really should take advantage - even if just for peace of mind. For anyone with a family history of diabetes, glaucoma or macular degeneration, the OCT eye scan is highly recommended, and of course if you notice any changes in your vision at all, you must see an optician. Why Should You Have an OCT Eye Scan First of all, we should say that this test is completely pain free. It takes under 60 seconds and there are no drops involved and no contact with the eye at all. While you sit comfortably, your optometrist will use the machine to look at your retina and take some images of its layers so that any changes beyond the surface can be noted. Using this technology we can now see through the retina and detect changes that would not be ordinarily picked up in a routine examination. Optometrists are very well trained in looking for eye disease and other health issues that can be associated with changes in the retina layers. Here is what it can show: Early changes in the retinal nerves, which leads to early detection of glaucoma and therefore possible prevention of glaucoma. It can help monitor moles or ‘naevi’ in the retina, which are like moles on the skin. They are very common but can occasionally turn malignant and so should be closely monitored. Detect fluid under the retina in vascular disease and diabetes in particular. Screen for macular degeneration (degeneration of the macular which is the part in the middle of retina). This can be seen using an OCT eye scan well before the effects are visible on the surface. Detect small holes and distortions in the macular, which can be the cause of blurred vision. This can be treated as a result of detection. ?Determine whether a condition involves retinal detachment or posterior vitreous detachment. The idea of this examination is that you have one regularly, so that the specialist can build up a series of images that will allow them to see any subtle changes over time. The results are high-tech and allow for the analysis of results between visits. When it comes to optical health, you shouldn’t ignore what is out there. With this incredible technology that you can access at your high street optician, any issues that may otherwise have gone unnoticed could instead be detected. Why take the chance of developing eye disease when you don’t have to? Author Plate David Paul opticians epitomise everything you want from a local eyewear specialist. Not only do they offer eye tests, they also provide an expert service that includes OCT eye scan testing, advice on buying your ultimate pair of glasses and much more. The team of experienced eyewear specialists and expert optometrists are there to make your glasses and contact lens buying experience the best it can be.
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