Retina
What is the Retina?
The retina is a critical part of the eye that plays a vital role in vision. At Central Florida Eye Specialists, our team of experienced ophthalmologists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for a wide range of retinal conditions.
The retina is a thin, light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. It acts like the film in a camera, capturing light that enters the eye and converting it into electrical signals.
These signals are then sent via the optic nerve to the brain, where they are processed into the images we perceive as vision. The retina is composed of several layers, including photoreceptor cells called rods and cones.
Rods are responsible for low-light and peripheral vision, while cones handle color vision and fine detail. The central part of the retina, known as the macula, has a high concentration of cones and is responsible for sharp, clear central vision.
What Are Common Eye Conditions That Affect the Retina?
Central Florida Eye Specialists physicians can diagnosis and manage certain treatments but will refer to a Retina Specialists if further or more extensive treatment is needed. The following retinal conditions we manage include:
Diabetic Eye Disease
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina. Over time, high blood sugar levels can cause these vessels to swell, leak, or become blocked, leading to vision problems.
In some cases, abnormal new blood vessels may grow on the surface of the retina. This can cause further changes to your vision.
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of vision loss in adults. However, proper management of diabetes through blood sugar control, regular eye exams, and early treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and preserve vision.
Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. Macular degeneration comes in two forms: dry and wet.
Dry macular degeneration is the most common form of the condition. It occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the macula gradually break down, causing vision to become blurred or distorted.
Wet macular degeneration, while less common, is more severe and involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina. These vessels can leak fluid and blood, causing rapid vision loss if left untreated.
While there is no cure for macular degeneration, early detection and treatment can slow its progression and help maintain vision.
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the underlying supportive tissue. This can happen due to a tear or hole in the retina, allowing fluid to accumulate underneath and cause the retina to pull away.
Symptoms of retinal detachment may include sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, or a curtain-like shadow over your visual field. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency that requires treatment right away to prevent permanent vision loss. We will refer you to a retina specialist.
High-Risk Medication Exams
Certain medications, such as Plaquenil, also known as hydroxychloroquine, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, can have potential side effects on the retina. Patients taking these medications should have regular eye exams to monitor for any signs of retinal toxicity.
During a high-risk medication exam, your ophthalmologist at Central Florida Eye Specialists
will perform a comprehensive eye exam, including specialized tests like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and visual field testing. These tests can spot early signs of retinal damage before you even notice any symptoms.
Early detection and treatment are key to preserving your vision and ensuring a lifetime of healthy vision.
