Let's simply learn about the Fluorescein Angiography test, which takes a 'photo' of the blood vessels inside the eye!

Our eyes are like high-tech cameras. Behind this camera is a very important membrane, which we call the retina. This part is where the signals we see are sent to the brain. So, if you have a problem with your vision, a special test called Fluorescein Angiography is done to see if there is a problem with the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Although the name is a bit complicated, let's talk about what happens in this.

Simply put, what is Fluorescein Angiography?

Think of the tiny blood vessels inside your eye as transparent tubes. When blood flows through these tubes, it's difficult to see from the outside if there's a blockage, a leak, or some other problem.

Fluorescein Angiography involves injecting a special dye into a vein in your arm. This dye is called fluorescein. This dye travels throughout your body with your blood and also into the blood vessels in your retina. The special thing about this dye is that it makes the blood vessels stand out very clearly. Then, a special camera takes several pictures (photos) of the inside of your eye. Specifically, the picture shows the dye moving through the blood vessels.

By looking at these images, your ophthalmologist can pinpoint any blockages, leaks, abnormal growths, or other damage to the blood vessels.

What kind of diseases does this test detect?

This test is very important for diagnosing various diseases related to the retina of the eye and for monitoring the progress of the disease during treatment. Let's look at some of such diseases in the table below.

How should you prepare before the test?

Your doctor will give you the necessary instructions before this test, but be especially careful about these points.

• Do not drive: During this test, special eye drops are used to dilate the pupil of your eye . This may cause your vision to be blurry for up to 12 hours. Therefore, be sure to have someone with you when you come to the test and when you go home. You will not be able to drive.
• Tell your doctor about your medications: Be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications the day before the test.
• Tell your doctor about any allergies: If you have any allergies to anything, especially iodine , let your doctor know in advance.
• If you are pregnant: If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, you should definitely tell your doctor.

What happens during the test?

This test is usually done in your doctor's office. It's a very quick test, taking less than 30 minutes.

1. First, the doctor or an assistant will put some eye drops in your eyes. This will cause the pupil of the eye to enlarge.

2. Then, you will be seated in front of a special camera. You will be instructed to place your forehead and chin on it and not move.

3. Before piercing the die, take several pictures with the camera.

4. Next, a dye called `fluorescein` will be injected into a vein in your arm.

5. As the dye travels through the blood vessels inside the eye, the camera takes many pictures at high speed.

What can you expect after the test?

You can go home the same day after the test, but be careful of these things for a few hours afterward.

• Sensitivity to light: You may feel a little uncomfortable when light hits your eyes. Therefore, it is best to wear a pair of sunglasses until this condition goes away.
• Blurred vision: As we mentioned earlier, the eye drops will cause blurred vision for a few hours. That's why we recommend bringing someone with you. If possible, it's best to take the day off from work and rest.

Are there any risks or side effects to this?

Fluorescein angiography is a very safe test. However, like any medical test, it has minor side effects and very rare risks.

Common Side Effects

These are normal things, don't worry about this.

• Yellowing of the skin: You may notice a slight yellowing of your skin for a few hours after the test.
• Urine color change: Your urine may turn a dark yellow or orange color for about 24 hours. This is how the dye is eliminated from the body.
• Blurred vision: Your vision may become slightly blurry for a few minutes.
• Burning sensation at the injection site: If the dye leaks a little during the injection, you may feel a burning sensation on your skin. This will go away in a few minutes.

Other conditions that may occur in some people

These things don't happen to everyone, but some people may feel these things.

• Feeling dizzy.
• Dry mouth.
• Increased heart rate.
• Metallic taste in the mouth.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Sneezing.

Allergic Reactions

This is very rare , but it's important to be aware of it. Some people can be allergic to this dye. In such cases, you may experience skin reactions such as hives or itching.

Are there times when you need to go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU)?

If you develop symptoms of an allergy (such as skin rash, itching) after the test, call your doctor immediately.

Very rarely, some people may experience a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). This can be life-threatening. If you experience any symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, or difficulty speaking, go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ETU) without delay.

When can we know the results?

Your eye doctor will analyze the images from the test and explain the results to you within a few days. If the images show any blockages or leaks in the blood vessels, it could be due to a condition called diabetes-related retinopathy or macular degeneration. If necessary, your doctor may order further tests.

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