The retina is a specialized tissue that lines the inside back part of the eyeball. The delicate retinal tissue consists of light sensors that process all the light rays that enter the eye, resulting in our ability to see images. If the retina becomes damaged through disease or injury, the images can become blurry or distorted. In some cases, the damage can result in permanent vision loss or blindness. It is important to have your retinas examined regularly by an eye care professional, especially if you have diabetes or a family history of retinal eye disease. At InSight Vision Center, our team of doctors have the technology and experience that is necessary to evaluate and treat these retinal disorders.
Common Retinal Diseases
Diabetic Retinopathy
With diabetic retinopathy, the retinal blood vessels become damaged as a result of the diabetes. These damaged vessels can leak blood and fluid into the retina, or they can become blocked, depriving the retina of oxygen and other nutrients it needs to stay healthy. If detected early enough, progression of diabetic retinopathy can be reduced with better glucose control. If left unchecked, diabetic retinopathy can cause hemorrhages, retinal detachment, macular edema, and neovascular glaucoma. Any one of those conditions has the potential to cause significant vision loss. Once diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, your doctor will determine if and when treatment or further evaluation is necessary based on the severity of the disease. The most common treatments for diabetic retinopathy are retinal laser surgery and medicine injections called intravitreal injections.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD or AMD) is one of the most common causes of poor vision after the age of 60. AMD is a deterioration or breakdown of the macula which can result in partial or complete loss of your central vision. The macula is a small area of the central retina that allows us to see fine details clearly. The vision that comes from the macula is what allows us to perform many of our daily activities such as reading and driving. There are different forms of macular degeneration and the recommended treatment would be based on the type and severity of the disease. Although age is the biggest risk factor for developing AMD, heredity, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and smoking have also been identified as risk factors.
Other Disorders of the Retina & Vitreous
- Retinal tear or detachment
- Macular hole
- Retinal artery or vein occlusion
- Vitreous floaters
- Lattice degeneration
