MERIDIAN, Miss., Dec. 18, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Optometrists at Primary Eyecare and Optical of Meridian, MS, have added a new instrument to their toolbox of techniques for early prevention of eye problems, the Optomap® laser retina scanner. The process is safe and quick. A patient looks into the Optomap® one eye at a time. A flash of light occurs as the machine takes an image in less than a second. It records views of the retina, which is the back layer of the eye that sends images to the brain. The retina has a network of nerves that sense light and send impulses to the brain via the optic nerve.
“Digital technology doesn’t replace the familiar tools of eye exams. The Optomap® increases our ability to identify and track problems such as retinal detachment, diabetic eye damage, glaucoma, melanoma, changes in eye pressure, and macular degeneration,” says Dr. Minh Duong, OD, of Primary Eyecare and Optical of Meridian.
Optomap® images are stored digitally for comparison over time. This helps Dr. Duong and the clinic’s other optometrist, Dr. Jennifer Dooley, OD, see whether changes have occurred and interventions are necessary. Exams involving the Optomap® scanner usually don’t require dilation of eyes with drops that sting or blur vision.
Glaucoma is one kind of problem that eye doctors track in annual exams. It damages the optical nerve and is the major reason for blindness in people over age 60. Fluid buildup in the front of the eye causes this damage by placing pressure on the optic nerve. Retinal imaging can reveal excess pressure on the optic nerve. Then glaucoma can be treated with eye drops that lower pressure.
Early detection is the best way to control many eye difficulties. For example, if an Optomap® image shows that diabetes is damaging blood vessels in the retina, an optometrist can encourage a patient to see a primary care physician for help in monitoring and adjusting diet to control blood sugar.
Early detection via Optomap® can also help slow the progression of macular degeneration, a condition that gradually deteriorates the macula – the central part of the retina. The macula governs the ability to drive, read, see objects in detail, and recognize faces.
Dr. Duong stresses that Optomap® testing is only part of a comprehensive eye exam. The process begins with patients discussing their personal and medical history that may increase the risk for eye diseases. Then eye charts and optometric instruments are used to measure near, far and peripheral vision along with the coordination and tracking ability of a patient’s eyes.
Located at 4721 26th Avenue in Meridian, Primary Eyecare and Optical of Meridian is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. More information is available by calling (601) 485-2020 or by visiting them online at http://www.primaryeyecarems.com/.
CONTACT: Primary Eyecare and Optical of Meridian, (601) 485-2020
