Fluorescein angiography is a diagnostic test which is a specific part of a photographic study, A vegetable based fluorescein dye is injected into a vein in one of your hands or arm and sequential black and white photographs are taken as the dye progresses through the retinal veins.
Before The Test
The doctor will explain what the procedure is and will ask you if you understand or have any questions. A nurse will also speak with you and answer any questions that you may have. The nurse will also take your blood pressure and pulse. It is important to tell the nurse and the doctor if you have any allergies to any medications or foods before you have the fluorescein angiography.
During The Test
The nurse will be in the room with you while the doctor is performing the test. Some patients feel nausea during the procedure but it usually lasts for just a few seconds. If any of the dye escapes from a small vein when it is injected, it is possible for your skin to feel very warm and yellow blotches may appear. Allergic reactions to the fluorescein dye are very uncommon. If an allergy occurs, you will begin to develop a rash or feel an eruption of itchiness. The reaction is usually treated with an oral dose of an antihistamine. The test lasts for only five to ten minutes.
After The Test
The doctor will ask you to stay in the clinic for about an hour before you will be allowed to go home. During that time, the nurse will take your blood pressure and pulse again and the doctor will make sure that you are all right and the nurse will give you additional instructions before you are allowed to go home. You will be given an appointment to come back to the clinic for follow-up care. If you have any pain, eye discharge or other problems or questions, call our service when you get home.
The day after the procedure is done, the nurse will telephone you to ask if you have any concerns or problems. She will give you additional instructions when needed.
