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How Is Age-Related Macular Degeneration Diagnosed? Tests Explained

age related macular tests

Learning how eye changes are found is the first step to keeping your sight. Many people worry about age-related macular degeneration in SW Calgary because it affects the center of your vision.

This is the part you use to see sharp details. Since you might not notice any symptoms early on, special tests are the only way to catch it before it hurts your vision. Knowing what to expect makes your eye visit much easier.

What Happens During A Full Eye Exam?

A checkup is more than just reading letters on a wall. When you see an optometrist in SW Calgary, they look deep into the back of your eye.

They are looking for tiny yellow spots called “drusen.” These are often the first signs that the condition is starting.

  • Eye Drops: These widen your pupils so the expert can see inside clearly.
  • Vision Test: You will read a chart to see how well you see far away and close up.
  • Pressure Test: A quick puff of air or a light touch checks the pressure in your eye.
  • Retina Check: Using a bright light to look for any changes in the back of your eye.

How Do Special Tools Find Hidden Problems?

New technology lets us see under the surface of the eye. Using early detection tests for age-related macular degeneration vision loss helps find the two types of this disease: “dry” and “wet.”

These tools can see if your retina is getting thin or if there are tiny, leaking blood vessels that shouldn’t be there.

Simple Guide To Eye Tests

This table explains the different tests used to check your eye health.

Test Name What it Does What it’s Like
Amsler Grid Checks for wavy lines Looking at a paper with straight lines
OCT Scan Takes a 3D picture A quick scan using light waves
Angiography Checks blood flow Uses a safe dye to show leaks
Visual Field Checks side vision Clicking a button when you see lights
Photo Shows the back of the eye A high-tech camera takes a picture

Why Is A Simple Grid So Helpful?

One of the best ways to track your sight is with the Amsler Grid. If you are looking for information on age-related macular degeneration near you, this grid is a great tool. You look at a page of straight lines.

If the lines look wavy, blurry, or have a hole in them, it is a big warning sign. This helps people who already have the “dry” form watch out for it turning into the “wet” form, which is more serious.

Using High-Tech Pictures For Your Care

A machine called an OCT has changed how we treat age-related macular degeneration in SW Calgary for our patients.

It works like a camera that sees through the layers of the eye. It is fast, does not hurt, and never even touches your eye.

By looking at these pictures over time, it is easy to see if your eyes are staying healthy or if you need a different treatment.

Things That Increase Your Risk

  • Getting Older: Most people are over 60 when this starts.
  • Family History: If your parents had it, you should get checked more often.
  • Smoking: This is very bad for the health of your eyes.
  • Health Issues: High blood pressure can affect how your eyes work.

Getting ready for your visit

When you go to an optometry clinic near you, bring a list of any changes you have noticed. Maybe words look fuzzy when you read, or colors don’t look as bright as they used to.

You should also bring your sunglasses. Your eyes will be very sensitive to light if the team uses drops to widen your pupils during the exam.

Keep Your Vision Sharp and Bright

At Eyedeology Optometry, we want to help you keep your sight for a lifetime. Our team uses the best tools to give you a very thorough checkup.

We know how important your vision is, and we make sure you feel comfortable during every test.

Finding changes early is the best way to protect your eyes as you get older. We look forward to helping you keep your world looking clear. Reach out to us to schedule your visit!

FAQs

+ Do the tests hurt?
None of these tests is painful. The eye drops might sting for a few seconds, but that's it. Most tests just involve looking into a light or at a camera while a picture is taken.
+ How often should I get checked?
If you are over 50, you should have a full exam once a year. If you already have eye changes, we might want to see you every few months to make sure everything stays stable.
+ What is the difference between dry and wet forms?
The dry form is more common and moves slowly. The wet form happens when blood vessels leak fluid into the eye. It is more serious and needs fast treatment to save your sight.
+ Can I check my own eyes at home?
Yes! Using the Amsler Grid every day is a great way to monitor your eyes. If you ever see a change or a wavy line, call us right away instead of waiting for your next visit.
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Welcome to Eyedeology

Where Dr. Margaret Penny’s legacy lives on!
Under the mentorship of Dr. Margaret Penny, both Dr. Jessica Yang and Dr. Farrah Sunderji continue to uphold the exceptional care standards you’ve come to expect. Whether you’re a new or existing Mayfair patient, we warmly invite you to schedule your appointments with us, without any changes to your existing information.

Call us at 587-353-5061 to schedule an appointment today

We’ve Moved!

Our clinic has relocated from Centennial Place in Downtown Calgary to Rockyview Health Centre at the following address:

1011 Glenmore Trail SW Building #1 Suite 423, Calgary, AB T2V 4R6

We look forward to continuing to provide exceptional eye care to our valued patients and warmly welcoming new patients from the Calgary community. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment!

Sincerely,
The Team at Eyedeology

587-317-2134