Direct ophthalmoscopy is a medical test performed to view the interior of the eyes. This procedure is performed with a specially designed instrument known as an ophthalmoscope. This is a procedure designed specifically to examine the back of the eyes. It can help the doctor examine the retina, choiroid, blood vessels, and the optic disc. The test is considered very safe, efficient, quick, and cost-effective, and it is performed on an outpatient basis. Therefore, it is widely used by doctors all over the world.
Direct opthalmoscopy is performed in a doctor's clinic or a technician's office, in a darkened room. Depending on the intent of the test, the doctor may put some eye drops in the eyes to dilate the pupils. An ophthalmoscope is used to perform this test. This is a machine that has an imaging machinery inside along with a source of illumination. As the machine is turned on, the light source illuminates the eye. The area which is illuminated can then be observed and studied for disease or damage. The test may be a part of a routine eye test or checkup. It may also be performed if you have symptoms of retinal detachment or other eye-related diseases such as glaucoma. Direct ophthalmoscopy may also be performed if you have high blood pressure or other diseases which may affect your blood vessels. These include diseases such as diabetes.
Direct ophthalmoscopy is a noninvasive procedure in which eye drops are poured into the eyes. This may make you uncomfortable and may also make you unable to drive. So it is always best to arrange for someone to drive you to and from the doctor's clinic or the technician's office. You may also wish to keep your sunglasses with you. Tinted glasses can decrease the discomfort caused due to dilated pupils.
It would also be a good idea to discuss a history of any eye diseases, especially glaucoma, in your family. If you are allergic to any medications, discuss them with your doctor. You may also want to discuss the use of any long-term medications with your doctor.
Opthalmoscopy is considered a fairly reliable test for detection of eye diseases and disorders. In the past, this test has been considered to be about 90% effective. It may be used to detect the early stages of several different serious eye disorders. There are no specific risks of the test itself. However, the drops used for dilating the pupils may cause discomfort or reactions. If glaucoma is suspected, the eye drops may trigger a narrow angle glaucoma attack. It may also cause dizziness, vomiting and nausea. You may experience dryness in the mouth and flushing of the skin. However, these risks are very rare and are only temporary.
There are not many side effects of the procedure. However, you may have some temporary side effects. The bright lights used in the procedure may feel slightly uncomfortable. However, they are neither invasive nor painful. Immediately after the light is shined in your eyes, you may briefly see some imagery. Once the lights are switched off, you may still see some after images. During the procedure, you may also experience some pressure on the eyes. This is uncomfortable, but the pressure sensations usually disappear immediately after the procedure is over. In case you have used any eye drops, they may briefly sting your eyes and make you feel uncomfortable. Sometimes, some of the eye drops may escape into your mouth and you may feel a strange or unusual taste in your mouth.
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