At John O’Connor Optometrists, a new high-tech machine is helping us protect and improve Aucklanders’ eye health. Our OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) machine helps our optometrists spot eye diseases and conditions early, so they can treat them before they worsen. And that’s got to be good!
What is an OCT Machine?
An OCT machine uses light waves to take detailed pictures of the different layers of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. It’s like an ultrasound, but instead of sound waves, it uses light waves so we can see what’s going on inside your eye without any discomfort or pain.
Eye conditions our OCT Machine can see
Glaucoma
What is it?
Glaucoma is a condition where the pressure inside your eye is too high. This can damage the optic nerve, and if untreated, can lead to blindness. If you start experiencing symptoms like tunnel or blurred vision or seeing halos around lights, our optometrist might use the OCT machine to check for signs of glaucoma.
How can the OCT help?
The OCT machine can measure the thickness of the optic nerve and the retina. Doing so helps our optometrist see if there is any damage or thinning, which might indicate glaucoma.
Macula Hole
What is it?
A macula hole is a small break in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. If you notice a sudden decrease in vision or see a dark spot in the centre of your vision, an OCT scan can reveal if a macula hole is the cause.
How can the OCT help?
The OCT machine can provide detailed images of the macula, highlighting any holes or damage. Early detection is important for treatment decisions, such as whether surgery is needed.
Macula Edema
What is it?
Macula edema is the swelling of the macula, usually due to leaking fluid from blood vessels in the eye. It can often be caused by diabetes.
How can the OCT machine help?
Blurred or wavy vision might be a sign. The OCT machine can detect fluid accumulation and swelling in the macula, which can help us diagnose macula edema and manage the condition.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
What is it?
AMD is an eye condition that affects older adults. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD or ARMD) occurs when the macula becomes damaged and the centre of your field of vision appears blurry, distorted, or dark. It damages the macula and can lead to loss of central vision. For some, AMD can take years to develop so it’s not noticed until vision loss occurs and AMD is quite advanced.
Some of the symptoms are the same as other eye conditions. So, if you have blurry vision, a dark spot in the middle of your vision or need more light to see, it may be that AMD is affecting your sight.
How can the OCT machine help?
If you notice any of those symptoms, consult an eye care professional at John O’Connor. A comprehensive eye exam using our OCT can identify the early signs of AMD by showing detailed images and changes in the macula’s structure. This will allow us to start treatments early and slow progression.
Optic Nerve Head Drusen
What is it?
Optic nerve head drusen are deposits of protein-like material that build up in the optic nerve. They can cause vision problems if they press on the nerve fibres. If you experience visual field loss or see flickering lights, the presence of optic nerve head drusen could be the cause.
How can the OCT machine help?
The OCT machine can detect these deposits early, allowing for monitoring and managing any potential vision issues.
Scleral contact lens fittings
The OCT machine isn’t just for detecting diseases. Besides checking the retina, the OCT machine is also useful for examining the front part of the eye, like when fitting scleral contact lenses. These lenses are larger and rest on the white part of the eye (sclera), and the OCT helps ensure a perfect fit for comfort and improved vision. Scleral contact lenses are an effective option for managing a variety of eye conditions, from keratoconus and dry eye syndrome to irregular corneas and severe astigmatism. If you experience vision problems or discomfort with regular contact lenses, scleral lenses might be the answer.
Better eye health with John O’Connor Optometrists
An OCT machine is a powerful tool for keeping your eyes healthy. Visit John O’Connor Optometrists and you’ll benefit from the latest technology in eye care. If you have symptoms like blurry vision, or seeing halos, or need a regular vision check, we’ll see you right. Our new OCT machine can provide valuable insights and help us with timely treatment and better outcomes for you. So, next time you visit our optometrist, this high-tech machine will be working hard to protect the way you see the world.
If you have experienced any of the above symptoms or are simply worried about your eyesight, contact John O’Connor Optometrists. Come and see our eye specialists for an eye test. Call 09 522 1283 to speak to our Newmarket optometrists or 09 836 1731 for an optometrist in Henderson.