Retinal Conditions

Retina Health: Vital to Your Vision

Imagine your eye as a camera. The cornea is like the lens, and the retina is like the film. As light is captured by the cornea, it’s focused on the retina which sends messages to the brain so you can make out images.

Retinal conditions can make it increasingly harder to make out images or even see. One of the best things you can do for your retinal health is to get your eyes regularly checked, and we can find a solution for you if anything is found.

How Do We Check for Retinal Conditions?

During a comprehensive eye exam at one of our locations, we’ll check for several aspects of your eye and vision health, including the retina.

Some patients wait until they see signs or symptoms of a retinal condition. However, getting a regular eye exam—even when your vision seems fine—can help you avoid potential retinal problems.

We offer treatments for several retinal conditions, but the only way to find out which condition you may have and the solution is through an exam.

Signs That It’s Time to See Your Doctor About Retinal Conditions

Types of Retinal Conditions

Macular Degeneration

Over 25 million Americans suffer from visual impairment due to macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is the breakdown of your eye’s macula—the area of the eye responsible for central vision. Although it does not lead to total blindness, it can hinder your ability to read, drive, and perform other routine activities. There are two types of macular degeneration, wet and dry. To find out more, click the link below.

Retinal Detachment

When the fluid gets under the retina, it is known as retinal detachment. This can occur when your retina has a small opening, or tear, which allows fluid to pass through. As fluid is allowed in, it can lift the retina away from underlying tissue layers and cause vision impairment. Learn more by clicking the link below.

Retinal Vein Occlusion

When a blockage prevents blood from leaving your retina, it can cause retinal vein occlusion. This blockage typically happens at the arteriovenous crossing—an area where an artery overlies the vein. When blood cannot pass through, it can lead to leaking fluid close to the macula. If this happens, your vision can become blurry or even be lost. Schedule an appointment if you notice blurry vision or other vision impairments.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic patients should be vigilant of diabetic retinopathy. Diabetes can cause capillaries in your eye to deteriorate, leaking fluid around and under the retina. As more fluid enters, the retina can swell, leading to blurred or distortions in your vision. You should schedule a regular eye exam if you suffer from either type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Retinal Tears/Holes

Retinal tears are just as they sound—small openings in the retina. Trauma or injuries can cause tears and holes in the retina, which may allow fluid to get into areas it should not. Another cause for retinal tears is when the gel-like substance in your eye, the vitreous, separates from the retina. Holes can also form trauma or lattice degeneration. To learn more, click the link below.

Floaters & Flashes

The specks and spots that sometimes appear in your vision are known as flashes and floaters. You may notice them more frequently when looking at illuminated backgrounds. In many cases, it’s not something to be overly concerned about. However, it can be a sign of a greater problem. If you’re seeing floaters or flashes in your vision, it’s worth your time to get it checked out by an eye doctor during an exam.

Related Services

Macular Hole Surgery

If your doctor discovers a small hole in your macula, they may recommend macular hold surgery to correct it. Find out more.

Glaucoma

Treatment for glaucoma is vital to preserving your vision for as long as possible. As the leading cause of blindness in people over 60, it cannot be ignored.

Eye Exam

Stay proactive about your eye health—it’s the best way to preserve clear vision or correct issues.