Optomap
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How many Optomap® Retinal Exams have been performed?
As of January 2007 over 10 million Optomap® Retinal Exams have been performed.
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How soon will the doctor see the results?
A digital image of your retina is immediately displayed for your doctor to review with you.
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What does the Optomap® Retinal Exam tell the doctor?
The Optomap® Retinal Exam allows the doctor to assess the health of your retina.
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Why is it important for the doctor to look at the retina?
The sensitive tissue that makes up the retina is susceptible to a variety of diseases. It is essential to catch any problems early in their progression to avoid vision loss This includes retinal tears, retinal detachment, retinal bleeding.
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What age groups are candidates for the Optomap® Retinal Exam?
Anyone can have their eyes examined with the Optomap® Retinal Exam, from children to adults to the elderly.
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Can I wear my contact lenses during the Optomap® Retinal Exam?
Yes.
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Will the Optomap® Retinal Exam detect if I have cataracts?
No, the Optomap® Retinal Exam is imaging the back of your eye, and cataracts are a problem that occurs on the front of your eye. The Optomap® Retinal Exam will tell you if you have diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, hypertensive retinopathy, retinal holes, tears and detachments, macular degeneration, malignant melanomas and many other retinal disorders.
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How long does it take to have an Optomap® Retinal Exam?
A digital image of your retina is captured in less than a second.
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I don't have any complaints; I see well, why should I get this?
Many retinal conditions do not produce symptoms such as pain. When detected early enough, many retinal problems can be treated to avoid vision loss. However, once a retinal problem has caused a loss in vision, it is almost never reversible. Early detection is vital to preserving good eye health.
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I have a family history of diabetes, should I have this done? Why?
It is particularly important for people who are at risk for diabetes to have an Optomap® Retinal Exam since they are particularly prone to problems with the retina that could lead to vision loss.
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If I have this done, will I still need to have my eyes dilated?
There is no need for dilating drops with the Optomap® Retinal Exam. However, if your doctor should see an area that they feel is suspicious, he/she may dilate your eyes and examine them further using other methods.
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Does this mean I will not be dilated? My doctor has told me I always need to be dilated.
The Optomap® Retinal Exam gives the doctor a comprehensive view of your retina without dilating your eyes. With the Optomap® Retinal Exam, it is possible to avoid dilation in most cases although your doctor may still wish to dilate your eyes.
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Can I drive after having the Optomap® Retinal Exam?
Yes, if there has been no dilation the Optomap® Retinal Exam will NOT blur your vision or make your eyes sensitive to light.
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Does having the Optomap® Retinal Exam hurt?
No, the Optomap® Retinal Exam is very comfortable, quick and painless.
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How often is it recommended to have an Optomap® Retinal Exam done?
The Optomap® Retinal Exam should be part of every comprehensive eye exam, and you should have your eyes completely examined once per year. NOTE: This may vary for diabetic or other patients who have known conditions and are being managed by their doctor.
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Will this change my prescription? Will I need glasses after this?
The Optomap® Retinal Exam will not change the current health of your eye, only help your doctor to better diagnose the health of your retina.
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I am pregnant. Can I have the test done?
Yes.
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Why do you have to take so many "pictures" of my eyes?
Unless there are problems found, or your doctor needs more information, the Optomap® Retinal Exam will be the only picture of your retina taken at your visit.