What is EyeSense?
We developed EyeSense for patients who value their eye health first and foremost. It enables techniques, equipment and skills far superior to those available under a standard sight test to help to create optimum eye health.
Your specialist optometrist at Lynne Fernandes Optometrists will create a bespoke plan for monitoring your risk of eye conditions with specific, tailored tests, and a programmed regularity of appointments. We call this EyeSense, and it is unique to Lynne Fernandes Optometrists. If you have any additional concerns about your eyes, you can ring for advice or attend for an additional urgent or emergency appointment. This is all included in your EyeSense plan.
What is Age Related Macula Degeneration or AMD?
There are two conditions associated with age related macular degeneration (AMD) – Dry AMD and Wet AMD.
Dry AMD is a slow, progressive condition that affects the central retina (that sends signals from the optic nerve to the brain) or macula (part of the retina) which is responsible for most of our central vision and our ability to see in colour. It can develop into the more serious form of the condition called Wet AMD which, if left untreated could cause central vision sight loss.
Having regular reviews of your eye health through eye examinations is key to detect Wet AMD as if it’s diagnosed quickly it can be treated.
If I have Dry or Wet AMD what are the benefits of having EyeSense?
EyeSenseTM appointments involve an in-depth eye examination including:
A Sita Fast threshold visual fields test
This computer based test focuses on your peripheral vision (the part of your eyesight outside of your main gaze) and then it looks at your whole vision to check for any aspects that might not be functioning as they should be. If these tests are carried out frequently the computer learns about your responses and can provide more accurate readings.
Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT)
This looks at the pressure in the eye which is an important indicator of any changes (due to eye conditions) that have occurred. During the test, a mild anaesthetic eye drop is given and then a blue light is shone on to the eye.
Dilation and imaging
By dilating the pupil we can more accurately see the internal structures of the eye (including the macular which is key for those at risk of AMD) to assess any changes. It takes about 20 minutes to work and is carried out by putting dilating drops into the eye.
Central visual fields test (Humphrey Visual field machine)
This tests how well the nerve fibres in your retina are working. The results are analysed by a computer and compared. As you do more of these tests the computer effectively learns about your responses and provides more and more accuracy.
Amsler check
This test checks for any distortion in your vision.
After these extensive tests we will tailor make a management plan for your eye health needs. However, should you ever need to see us or ask us a question you are always welcome to book an appointment at any time.
The key benefits are:
The scheme helps you to manage your eye care and it will provide you with an in-depth and tailor made review of your eye health.
The eye examinations are very thorough and go above and beyond a standard eye examination.
The advanced screening detects any change in your eye health and any development to Wet AMD.
By regularly reviewing your condition it helps to detect any changes earlier and therefore offer any treatment more quickly.
Low levels of macula pigment can increase the risk of macular degeneration. We can give advice on diet or supplements which can help to increase your eye macula pigment levels to protect your eyes against UV light.
