Electroretinography

Protecting your eyesight often requires advanced diagnostic technology to detect conditions that may not be visible at first glance. One of the most valuable tools we use at Your Eye Doctor P.C. in Ashburn, VA is Electroretinography (ERG). This specialized test helps us measure how well the retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of your eye, is functioning.

What Is ERG?

ERG, short for Electroretinography, is a painless, non-invasive test that records the electrical activity generated by the retina when it is exposed to light. Similar to how an EKG tracks the heart’s electrical signals, ERG gives your eye doctor important information about how your photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) and other retinal cells are working.

How ERG Works

During an ERG test, you’ll be seated comfortably while a few simple steps are taken:

• Preparation: A special contact lens electrode or sensor is placed on the eye or skin near the eye.

• Light stimulation: Different patterns of light flashes or flickering lights are presented.

• Recording response: The sensors record your retina’s electrical signals as it responds to the light.
  
  

These results are then compared to what’s considered normal for your age group, allowing the doctor to pinpoint whether retinal function is impaired.

Why ERG Is Important

Your retina plays a crucial role in capturing light and transmitting visual signals to the brain. If the retina isn’t functioning properly, your vision may become blurry, distorted, or even lost. ERG helps detect these issues early, often before noticeable symptoms develop.

Conditions ERG Can Help Detect or Monitor:

• Inherited retinal diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa or cone-rod dystrophy

• Macular degeneration, which affects central vision

• Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that can damage the retina

• Medication-related retinal damage, including drugs like hydroxychloroquine

• Glaucoma and optic nerve issues, through pattern ERG analysis

• Unexplained vision loss when standard exams don’t provide answers
  
  

By identifying problems early, ERG allows for closer monitoring and intervention, which can help preserve your vision long-term.

ERG in Ashburn, VA

Electroretinography is more than just a test - it’s a window into the health of your retina and a proactive step toward protecting your vision. Residents of Ashburn, Virginia, and the surrounding areas have access to this advanced diagnostic testing right here at Your Eye Doctor P.C.. You don’t need to travel far to benefit from state-of-the-art technology that can protect your vision. By offering ERG in Ashburn, we ensure that our patients receive thorough, accurate eye care tailored to their unique needs.

Contact Your Eye Doctor P.C. today to schedule your comprehensive eye exam and learn more about ERG testing. Early detection and advanced care can help safeguard your vision for years to come