Plaquenil Exams

Plaquenil Exams at Eyecare Associates

If you’re taking Plaquenil (hydroxychloroquine) as part of your treatment for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, regular eye exams are essential to safeguard your vision. Plaquenil, while effective for managing autoimmune conditions, has the potential to cause retinal toxicity, which can lead to vision loss if not monitored carefully.

At Eyecare Associates, we specialize in conducting thorough Plaquenil exams to detect early signs of retinal damage, allowing us to act quickly to protect your eyesight.

Why Plaquenil Eye Exams Are Important
Prolonged use of Plaquenil can cause damage to the retina, leading to Plaquenil retinopathy. This condition may affect your central and peripheral vision, sometimes without obvious symptoms in its early stages. Regular screenings are essential because early detection can prevent long-term vision issues.

What Happens During a Plaquenil Exam?
Our Plaquenil exams include a series of advanced diagnostic tests to ensure your retinal health:

• Dilated Eye Exam: To get a closer look at the retina and detect any abnormalities.

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This imaging technology provides a detailed view of the retina’s layers, allowing us to detect early signs of damage.

• Visual Field Testing: This test helps assess whether your peripheral vision has been affected by the medication.

• Fundus Photography: Captures detailed images of your retina for ongoing monitoring over time.
  
  

How Often Should You Have a Plaquenil Exam?
For patients taking Plaquenil, we recommend having a baseline eye exam when starting the medication, followed by annual comprehensive exams to monitor for any changes. For those who have been on the medication for an extended period, more frequent exams may be advised based on your unique risk factors.

Schedule Your Plaquenil Eye Exam
At Eyecare Associates, we’re dedicated to providing the highest level of care for patients on Plaquenil. Don’t wait until you notice symptoms—early detection is key to protecting your vision. Schedule your Plaquenil eye exam today to ensure your eyes remain healthy and your vision clear.