3 Things to Know About a Retinal Exam

Regular eye exams are essential for maintaining strong vision and overall eye health. One critical aspect of a routine eye exam is a retinal exam. A retinal exam is a non-invasive procedure where an eye specialist examines the back of your eye to evaluate your retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. Here are three key points you should know before your next retinal exam.

What is a Retinal Exam?

A retinal exam is a test that examines the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. During the exam, your eye doctor will use a special camera or microscope to examine the inside of your eye. The exam is non-invasive and painless, and you won’t need any anesthesia.

Importance of a Regular Retinal Exam

A retinal exam is important for detecting eye diseases such as macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. These diseases can lead to vision loss if not detected and treated early. By having regular retinal exams, your eye doctor can catch any problems before they become more serious.

What to Expect During the Retinal Exam

During a retinal exam, your eye doctor will dilate your pupils using eye drops. This allows them to see a wider area of your retina. Then, they will use a special camera or microscope to examine the inside of your eye. The exam usually takes less than 30 minutes.

Bring sunglasses: Dilation can cause temporary sensitivity to light and blurry vision, so it’s best to bring sunglasses.

Arrange for transportation: It’s best to have someone drive you home after the exam, as your vision may be blurry.

Taking care of your eyes is essential for maintaining strong vision and overall health. Regular retinal exams can help detect potential issues and prevent them from worsening, allowing you to enjoy clear vision for many years.

Schedule your regular retinal exam with Dr. Ankit Desai at 815-714-9115 to maintain optimal eye health.

Windy City Retina – Ankit Desai

15905 S Frederick St

Suite 105
Plainfield, IL 60586
815-714-9115