What Can an OCT Scan Reveal About Your Eye Health?

When it comes to preserving your vision, early detection of eye conditions is essential. One of the most advanced tools we offer is the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scan. At Eldorado Vision & Optical, we utilize OCT technology to help detect and monitor various eye diseases, often before you experience any symptoms.
 

What Is an OCT Scan?

An OCT scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses light waves to take cross-sectional images of your retina, the thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye responsible for capturing light and sending visual signals to the brain. OCT uses light to produce detailed, high-resolution images of the retina’s individual layers.
 

This precision allows eye doctors to visualize structures at a microscopic level, helping to detect even the slightest abnormalities. The scan is quick, painless, and does not require any contact with the eye. In just a few seconds, OCT can provide a wealth of information about your eye health that would otherwise be impossible to see during a standard eye exam. It plays a vital role in both diagnosing eye diseases and tracking changes over time.
 

What Can an OCT Scan Detect?

OCT scans are an invaluable tool in identifying and tracking changes in your eye health. Here are some of the key conditions an OCT scan can reveal:
 

• Macular Degeneration: OCT can detect early signs of both dry and wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that affects central vision. With regular monitoring, progression can be tracked, and treatment can be started early to preserve vision.
• Glaucoma: By measuring the thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer, OCT scans help in detecting glaucoma - even in its earliest stages. This makes it a critical component in glaucoma diagnosis and management.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: For patients with diabetes, an OCT scan can detect fluid or blood leakage in the retina caused by damaged blood vessels. Early detection allows for timely intervention to prevent vision complications.
• Retinal Detachment or Tears: OCT imaging can highlight abnormalities such as retinal thinning, tears, or detachment. These conditions require prompt attention to avoid permanent vision loss.
• Macular Holes and Pucker: These conditions involve the central part of the retina and can distort vision. OCT scans offer precise imaging to assess the extent and severity of these issues, guiding treatment decisions.
• Monitoring Treatment Effectiveness: If you're undergoing treatment for an eye condition, OCT can help track your response to medications or surgeries over time, ensuring the treatment is working as intended.

Why Early Detection Is Essential

The beauty of an OCT scan lies in its ability to uncover issues before noticeable symptoms develop. Many eye diseases, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration, progress silently. With OCT imaging, we can catch and manage these conditions early, often preserving vision that might otherwise be lost.
 

Protect Your Vision with Advanced Eye Imaging

Your eyes are complex, and maintaining their health requires more than just a vision check. With advanced tools like OCT scans, our team can detect subtle changes and early signs of disease. This proactive approach allows for timely treatment and better long-term outcomes.
 

Schedule your comprehensive eye exam with at Eldorado Vision & Optical and experience the benefits of advanced, personalized eye care. Visit our office in McKinney, Texas, or call (972) 564-8400 to book an appointment today.