Retinal Screening
Retinal Screening is a diagnostic process used to examine the health of the retina and detect any abnormalities or diseases early.
Purpose:
- To identify retinal conditions and diseases before symptoms appear.
- To monitor and manage existing retinal health issues.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for Retinal Screening
Retinal screening is essential for early detection of retinal conditions and to prevent vision loss. You should consider getting a retinal screening if you experience any of the following symptoms:
| Category | Specific Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Vision Changes | • Blurry Vision: Persistent or sudden blurriness. • Floaters: Dark spots, strings, or shadows moving across vision. • Flashes of Light: Seeing bursts of light in peripheral vision. |
| Difficulty Seeing | • Reduced Night Vision: Trouble seeing in low-light conditions. • Distorted Vision: Seeing straight lines as wavy or bent (Amsler grid distortion). |
| Eye Pain/Discomfort | • Persistent Pain: Ongoing or sharp pain in or around the eyes. • Eye Irritation: Chronic redness not related to allergies. |
| Underlying Conditions | • Diabetes: Crucial to monitor for diabetic retinopathy. • High Blood Pressure: Checking for hypertensive retinal changes. |
| Warning Signs | • Sudden Vision Loss: Abrupt loss of partial or full vision. • Focusing: Trouble focusing on objects at different distances. |
Preventive Measures for Corneal Disorders
Proper Eye Hygiene
Regularly clean and replace contact lenses as directed to prevent infections and complications.
Protective Eyewear
Use goggles in environments with dust, wind, or chemicals to safeguard your eyes.
UV Protection
Wear sunglasses with UV protection to prevent damage from harmful sunlight.
Regular Eye Exams
Schedule routine check-ups with an eye care professional to detect potential issues early.
When to Seek Screening
Routine Screening: If you have a history of retinal conditions or are at risk due to age, diabetes, or hypertension, regular screening is recommended.
After Symptoms: Seek a screening immediately if you experience any of the above symptoms, even if they are intermittent.
Early detection through retinal screening can help manage or treat conditions effectively, preserving vision and eye health. If you have any of these symptoms or are at risk, consult an eye care professional to schedule a retinal screening.