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Below are links to pages that speak to diseases, conditions, treatments and procedures that we commonly see in the field of retina specialty. While many of the diseases we treat or services we provide are not listed, we are continually adding to this section to provide further educational materials to improve your health care experience.
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Fluorescein Angiography
WHAT IS IT?
Fluorescein Angiography is a diagnostic procedure in which a fluorescent dye is injected into a vein in the arm. As the dye circulates through the blood vessels in the eye, a series of photographs are taken to study the retinal circulation. Once these photographs are developed, they aid in the diagnosis of eye disease.
DILATION OF THE EYE:
To obtain a good picture of the vessels at the back of your eye, the pupil must be wide open. Both pupils will usually be dilated. Eye drops are used to produce dilation. Because they take about 30 minutes to produce dilation, the drops are given when you first arrive in the office. The pupil will remain dilated for a minimum of four hours, but in some cases it may last longer. Sunlight will seem unusually glaring after the test. When the effects of dilation have worn off, your vision will be as it was before the test.
FOOD:
There are no food restrictions, but if you know that you become nervous in a new situation, a light meal is suggested.
ABOUT THE DYE:
Fluorescein, the yellow dye injected in your arm vein, is a very safe dye. Like all drugs, a few individuals may have an allergic response, but most people are not affected. The dye may make your skin slightly yellow for 24 hours after the test. This is normal and is nothing to worry about. Fluorescein is eliminated from you body through the urine. Your urine may be a very bright yellow for 24-36 hours after the test. Drinking liquids after the test is recommended for faster elimination of the dye.
DIABETIC PATIENTS:
If you are diabetic, the fluorescein dye may alter your urine test results for 24-48 hours. Blood sugar tests will not be affected.
QUESTIONS:
Please feel free to call the office if you have any questions regarding the test.
LENGTH OF TESTS:
After dilation of your eyes, photography takes about 30 minutes. Your entire visit may last up to 1 – 2 hours.
DRIVING:
Since your pupils will be dilated, the sunlight will seem very bright. This makes driving hazardous, so plan to bring a friend who can drive.
SUNGLASSES:
Bring a pair of sunglasses to wear while your eyes are dilated. If you do not own a pair, our office will provide simple sunglasses.
DRUGS:
Drugs do not interfere with the tests, but some eye drops do prevent dilation of your eyes. Check with your doctor about any medications that you are using. Your doctor will tell you if any changes should be made.