Understanding Eye Disease Screenings and What We Can Test For
Eye disease screenings are essential for detecting several eye diseases early on before they lead to significant vision loss. An optometrist near you can accurately diagnose glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration through eye disease screenings. At New Sights Eyecare, Dr. Shanzida Alam provides comprehensive eye care for individuals and families throughout Houston, TX, and the surrounding communities. Continue reading to learn about eye disease screenings and how they can preserve your eyesight.
What Is an Eye Disease Screen?
An eye disease screening provides prompt feedback for multiple eye health concerns. This screening is a fast way to determine if your optometrist needs to look at your eyes and diagnose an eye condition. Some conditions, such as glaucoma, do not exhibit symptoms until your eyes suffer considerable damage and cause vision loss. You can protect your visual acuity by undergoing periodic screens for cataracts and other conditions.
Cataract Screenings
Cataracts cause your natural lens to become cloudy, blurring your vision and making it challenging to see at night. There are several tests your optometrist can use to diagnose this condition, and they can perform them alone or during a comprehensive eye exam at their office.
Your optometrist near you may have you undergo the visual acuity test to determine if you have cataracts. They will have you read a chart with letters of different sizes. This test helps your optometrist detect visual impairments you may have, such as cataracts. Your doctor will also perform a retinal exam after dilating your pupils. Our eye doctors can also perform a slit lamp exam, which involves shining a narrow light beam into the eye and performing a physical examination of the cornea, lens, iris, and other ocular structures.
Diagnostic Tests for Glaucoma
We offer diagnostic screenings for glaucoma at New Sights Eyecare in Houston, TX. Glaucoma occurs when excess pressure inside the eye damages the optic nerve, impairing vision. As part of a comprehensive screening for glaucoma, Dr. Alam will examine your optic nerve and measure the thickness of your cornea. Your eye doctor will also test your peripheral vision and perform other checks to determine whether you have this condition.
How Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration Diagnosed?
Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, impacts older adults since their macula becomes damaged over time. The macula is a portion of your retina responsible for central vision, and it can significantly impact your sight when damaged.
Typically, we start with the visual acuity test to diagnose problems with your central vision. Your optometrist will also test your peripheral vision and use an ophthalmoscope to examine the inside of your eye if your central vision deteriorates between visits. You may have AMD if you have yellowish-white spots under the retina. You must see an optometrist near you for the appropriate screening test to detect AMD and receive prompt treatment.
Contact a Top Optometrist Near You in Houston, TX, for an Eye Disease Screening Today
Protecting your eye and vision health is vital for ensuring you do not suffer significant vision loss or blindness, so contact New Sights Eyecare in Houston, TX, to get an eye disease screening to preserve your vision. Call us at (281) 469-3400 to set up a screening for glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and other common eye conditions. Dr. Alam is with the patient every step of the way and provides personalized care to ensure your eyes remain healthy.