Having a healthy retina is crucial to good vision. The retina is a thin membranous lining situated at the rear of the eyeball. It contains cells connected to nerve fibers that are stimulated to contact the brain whenever light enters the eye through these sensitive cells. Campus Eye Group offers the services of our specially trained ophthalmologists to diagnose and treat any conditions and diseases that affect either the retina or its vitreous gel.
Individuals who experience any of the following symptoms should contact us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for our retinal services:
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- Vision Loss
- Blurry or Distorted Vision
- Noticing Cobwebs or Floating Specks in Vision
There are several major diseases and conditions that can affect an individual’s ability to enjoy clear and unobstructed vision. These include:
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): This complex retinal disease has become the leading cause for people over the age of 50 to lose their sight. It is a degenerative disease that damages the center area of the retina known as the macula. The macula is that part of the eye required for clear and sharp central vision. If the retina’s macula has degenerated, it can no longer properly send electrical impulses to the brain when light enters the eye. The result can be vision that is dark, distorted, or blurry. Most cases of AMD are related to aging. However, other factors increase the risk for getting this disease, including smoking, overexposure to UV rays of sunlight, genetics, heart disease, and high serum lipid levels.
Diabetic Retinopathy: When high blood sugar levels lead to the blood vessels in the retina becoming damaged, a disease known as diabetic retinopathy occurs. Blocked capillaries, fluid leaking into the retina, and the abnormal growth of new blood vessels can all compromise the ability to enjoy clear vision. People with both type 1 and 2 of diabetes are at greatest risk of this retinal disease which can lead to permanent vision loss. Routine Retinal Services evaluations can help to monitor this condition and provide treatment before further loss of vision can occur.
Retinal Tear or Detachment: When the vitreous gel protecting the retina gradually shrinks during the aging process, it can pull on the retina, causing tears in its surface or a detachment that causes vision loss. Because these tears can be painless, it’s important to get a professional evaluation if any of the following symptoms are noticed:
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- Onset of New Floaters and Flashers in the Vision.
- Shading or Darkening of the Vision
- A Rapid Loss of Sharp Central Vision
Floaters and Flashers: These are small lines, cobwebs, specs of light or dots that appear in the field of central vision. If any of these symptoms appear, especially suddenly, a thorough retinal examination is warranted.
If you notice any of the symptoms associated with the disorders outlined above please do not hesitate to schedule an evaluation with one of our Retinal Services specialists at Campus Eye Group. Early diagnosis and treatment can help protect against permanent vision loss.