A retinal examination is a medical procedure used to assess the health of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This examination helps detect various eye conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. During the exam, an eye care professional uses special instruments to view the retina and may apply eye drops to dilate the pupils for a clearer view.
The procedure is typically quick and painless. Patients may experience temporary blurred vision after dilation, but this usually resolves within a few hours. Regular retinal examinations are important for maintaining eye health and preventing vision loss.