Our eyes change gradually over time, so much so, that many people don’t usually notice the subtle changes. The only way to be sure your eyes are healthy is with a comprehensive dilated eye exam. During an exam, Dr. Ward at Lake Nona Eye Care, inspects each eye closely for both eye diseases and vision problems, many of which don’t have warning signs.
During a dilated eye exam, eye drops are used to widen the pupils. This allows more light into the eye and the doctor is able to observe the back of your eye.
According to the National Eye Institute, “Dilation is an important part of a comprehensive eye exam because it enables your eye care professional to view the inside of the eye. Drops placed in each eye widen the pupil, which is the opening in the center of the iris (the colored part of the eye). Dilating the pupil allows more light to enter the eye the same way opening a door allows light into a dark room. Once dilated, each eye is examined using a special magnifying lens that provides a clear view of important tissues at the back of the eye, including the retina, the macula, and the optic nerve.”
A comprehensive eye exam with dilation, the team at Lake Nona Eye Care can diagnose problems such as:
Diabetes-related eye problems: Such as diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of blindness in America. The exam can reveal leaking of blood vessels, swelling, and abnormal growth of blood vessels in the retina.
Tumors: Eye problems can be the first sign of a brain tumor.
Hypertension: High blood pressure can cause damage to the eye’s blood vessels.
Macular degeneration: Deterioration of the macula, a small area of the retina, the exam may show clumps of pigment or in drusen, yellow deposits, beneath the retina. A common cause of blindness in people over 50, catching it early can slow its progress.
Detached retina: Occurs when the retina separates from the back wall. A very serious condition that needs immediate attention.
Glaucoma: A disease that causes damage to the optic nerve. A dilated eye exam can show changes in the color and shape of the optic nerve fibers and cupping of the optic disc.
Inflammation: Eyesight can be threatened if an infection enters the retina’s blood vessels. This can be a complication of other immune disorders, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Many Orlando residence don’t realize how much stress and damage they put on our eyes every day. Taking care of your eyes now will pay off with better vision for years to come. Make regular eye exams part routine to ensure you will enjoy better eyesight in the future.
Don’t put if off any longer, schedule your comprehensive eye exam today with Lake Nona Eye Care or call us at 407-658-9990