Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

OCT provides an advanced scan of different structures within the eye not normally visible. Light is used to provide highly detailed images in either 2 or 3D allowing different layers of the eye to be visualised. OCT is used in the detection of wet macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease and glaucoma. The OCT scan is a quick and painless procedure taking less that 1 minute for each scan.

This service is recommended for:

  • A family history of eye disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes Short sightedness
  • Retinal Abnormalities

This service is not funded by the NHS and is provided at a cost of £15 per patient.

Dry Eye Clinic

Dry eye is a very common problem resulting in symptoms of gritty, red and ironically, watery eyes. There are many reasons why patients suffer from dry eyes and a variety of different treatment strategies. Careful assessment is required and a specific management plan has then to be implemented.

Follow-up appointments are crucial in order to allow any modification to the initial treatment plan.

Common Causes for dry eyes

Ageing

Prevalence of dry eye increases with age. Two to three times more women than men are affected.

Medication

For example antihistamines, HRT

Environment

Air conditioning, air travel, central heating, sun exposure and wind.

Insufficient blinker

Computer usage, eye lid problems, reading

General health

Rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, auto-immune disease

Eye surgery

Previous laser eye surgery or cataract surgery

Eye lid disease (Blepharitis)

The meibomian glands are housed within the eyelid & contribute to the quality of the tear film of the eye. Any dysfunction of these will lead to dry eye symptoms

Contact lens wear

Contact lenses interfere with the tear film

Our Process to help

Dry eye Index questionnaire

The patient is asked to complete as series of questions, relating to their eye problems, usage of their eyes, and when their symptoms appear to be worse. This allows the clinician to evaluate the Dry eye Index.

Examination

The patient is examined on a slit lamp using specific dyes to show areas of dryness on the eye. This is graded for both position and depth of staining to determine whether the patient has mild, moderate or severe dry eyes.
Tear volume and quality of tears are assessed.
A detailed examination of the eyelids, the conjunctival tissues and the glands within the eyelids is performed.

General health

Some medical conditions such as Rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes & auto-immune disease can affect the tear production

Management plan advised

A specific management plan is devised for each patient and is based on the outcome of their Dry eye assessment.
This may involve the use of eye drops or gels and other devices such as The Eyebag, for Meibomian gland dysfunction.

Aftercare

Patients will booked for further appointments based on their specific requirements.