Retinal Exam: Importance, How it Works, and Benefits

What Techniques are Used in a Retinal Examination to See the Back of the Eye?

The techniques used in a retinal examination to see the back of the eye include a direct examination, a slit lamp examination and an indirect examination. Using a retinal exam as part of your regular eye test is how optometrists examine the deeper parts of the eye and first identify any warning signs of potential eye conditions. The techniques used in a retinal examination to see the back of the eye are listed below.

• Direct Examination: A direct examination simply involves the use of a handheld tool known as an ophthalmoscope to examine the back of your eye.
• Slit Lamp Exam: A slit lamp exam may require you to sit in a chair with a specific instrument positioned in front of you to then place your chin and forehead on. The optometrist will then look through a lens in combination with the microscope part of the instrument to view your retina.
• Indirect Examination: An indirect examination may either have you lying down or in a semi-reclined position. The optometrist will then shine a bright light in your eye with an instrument worn on their head and look through a lens that is held near your eye.

1. Direct Examination

A direct examination is a type of retinal examination that mainly involves the optometrist using a handheld tool, which is known as an ophthalmoscope. This tool has a light and different lenses that allows the optometrist to take a closer look at the back of the eye.

2. Slit Lamp Exam

A slit lamp examination will require you to be seated so you can position your chin and forehead on the slit lamp biomicroscope. The optometrist will then use the microscope on the machine together with a lens to examine the back of your eye. This method provides the same amount of view of the eye as an indirect examination does, but with increased magnification and narrower field of view.

3. Indirect Examination

An indirect examination may have you either lying down or in a semi-reclined position for the optometrist to then shine a bright light in your eye with an instrument worn on their head. The instrument is called a binocular indirect ophthalmoscope, it resembles a miner’s light and allows the optometrist to look at your eyes with a lens positioned near your eye.

How Does a Retinal Exam Differ from Other Types of Eye Exams?

A retinal exam differs from other types of exams as it evaluates the health of the back of the eye including the choroid and the optic disc. However, a retinal exam is one of the other types of eye tests that are normally performed during a standard eye test at the optometrist. All eye exams that are involved in an eye test are performed to assess different regions of the eye and therefore, all differ from each other.

How Often Should You Have a Checkup Eye Test?

It is recommended to have an eye test at least once every 1-2 years if you do not already have existing eye conditions. If you are 50 years or older, the recommendation is once every year unless advised otherwise by your optometrist. A checkup eye test is a vital way in taking care of your eyes and vision and making sure an eye care professional can detect any possible signs of a more complex condition.

How Long Does the Retinal Examination Take?

A retinal examination may be as brief as regular eye tests, within which a retinal exam is conducted and these take around 30 minutes. However, this may differ depending on your condition and if the optometrist may need to run additional tests. At Oscar Wylee, our comprehensive eye tests typically take 20-30 minutes.

How Long Does it Take to Get the Results of a Retinal Exam?

It may take around 20-30 minutes for you to get the results from your eye test, which will include the findings from your retinal exam. It is important to note that a retinal exam is not separate from a complete eye test, therefore, you can receive your retinal exam results at the very end of the eye test.

1. Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a common eye problem that can lead to vision loss. Glaucoma may be caused by increased ocular pressure, genetics, diabetes, increased age, migraines, high-blood pressure and many other conditions. The types of glaucoma include open-angle, and closed-angle and within these types are different forms including primary glaucomas and secondary glaucomas. Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a medical emergency which requires urgent medical attention.

2. Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy refers to an eye condition that can occur as a complication of diabetes and may be diagnosed during an eye exam. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when the blood vessels in the retina are damaged due to diabetes. The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that processes light into images. Diabetic retinopathy may not have any symptoms in its early stages, which is why patients with diabetes are recommended to get a regular eye test as an optometrist may be able to detect the issue early on. Diabetic retinopathy may be treated with laser treatment or surgery in severe cases.

3. Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is when the retina in the eye detaches from the layer of blood vessels that provide it with oxygen and nutrients also known as the choroid. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency and requires urgent care as the retina cannot function. Causes of retinal detachment can include ageing, an eye injury and diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms of retinal detachment can include light flashes, floaters, blurry vision and is typically painless. Treating retinal detachment typically requires surgery performed by an ophthalmologist according to Better Health.

4. Hypertensive Retinopathy

Hypertensive retinopathy is defined as an eye disease that occurs when high blood pressure damages the retina. Hypertensive retinopathy hinders blood flow to the retina, which can cause vision loss and other complications. Hypertensive retinopathy can indicate that you may have poor blood flow in other regions of your body as high blood pressure can typically affect arteries throughout the body. The symptoms of hypertensive retinopathy may not present any symptoms for a while, unless in more severe cases where low vision can occur. The risk factors for this condition can include smoking, history of cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, obesity and high blood sugar. Treatment may include managing blood pressure levels to ensure they are reduced by keeping a healthy weight, eating balanced meals, exercising regularly and limiting alcohol consumption.

5. Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is characterised as a disease that develops in the macula, affecting your central vision. The two types of age-related macular degeneration are dry, which is the most common form and takes place when the macula thins out as you get older. The other type is wet (AMD), which develops when the macula is damaged by abnormal blood vessels in the back of the eye. It is considered less common and can lead to faster loss of vision. There is currently no treatment for age-related macular degeneration, therefore, an ophthalmologist will need to keep monitoring your condition through frequent eye tests.

Does Oscar Wylee Offer a Retinal Exam?

Yes, Oscar Wylee offers comprehensive eye exams which can include retinal exams. All stores offer retinal examinations as part of the eye test process, however, the availability of retinal examination equipment may vary between stores. You can call your local Oscar Wylee store before visiting if you require more information.