RALEIGH, N.C., July 10, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Optometrists are pleased to present patients with the new addition of an optical coherence tomography (OCT) machine to the roster of services available, reports Family Eye Care Center.  For patients with macular degeneration, glaucoma or other eye health conditions, the OCT machine provides a more accurate diagnosis. Eye doctors are now able to detect eye conditions earlier, as well as monitor the progression of eye conditions and treatments. The OCT machine will be used in conjunction with regular eye exams to offer patients and optometrists additional information on an individual’s eye health needs.

An optical coherence tomography machine delivers non-invasive testing which produces cross-section retinal images by way of light waves. This machine allows for mapping and measurement of the layers of the back of the eye. Such measurements are used to diagnose, give treatment guidance and monitor the progression and treatment results for eye conditions including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease. Glaucoma and macular degeneration are often seen in aging populations. Early detection can slow the progress of certain eye conditions and reduce related vision loss. Regular eye tests do not provide sufficient data about the retina because detection of eye diseases often occurs at later stages, once the condition has already progressed. Eye doctors and patients can now benefit from the OCT machine by receiving more accurate data earlier and throughout the stages of a condition, which allows optometrists to implement a treatment program sooner.

“The OCT machine will provide our macular degeneration and glaucoma patients with more details about the progression of their condition,” said Dr. Jeffrey Handschumacher. “Early detection of retinal changes can help us effectively slow the progression of many eye conditions. We continue to partner with clients to make the best treatment decisions possible with the higher standard of accuracy afforded to us by OCT tests. We challenge ourselves to exceed patient expectations and provide the highest quality of eye care at Family Eye Care Center.”  

Dr. Handschumacher, optometrist at Family Eye Care Center, serves residents of Raleigh, Rocky Mount and the surrounding communities. Their staff offers caring and comprehensive vision care for children and adults. Services include comprehensive vision services for children and adults, contact lens exams, hard-to-fit specialty contacts and lenses, diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases, computer-related vision problems, eye emergencies and frames. Patients can seek eye care treatment at their Raleigh or Rocky Mount locations.

Call (919) 981-4444 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about optical coherence tomography. Visit http://www.familyeyecarecenternc.com/ for more details on their full range of optometry services.

Family Eye Care Center, (919) 981-4444