Retina Care and Treatment
The retina is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye that converts images into signals your brain can understand. Retina specialists at practices in this directory diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from age-related macular changes to complications of diabetes. Early detection is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your sight.
Understanding
Retinal Conditions
The retina is a complex structure, and many conditions can affect how well it functions. Understanding the most common retinal diseases can help you recognize symptoms early and seek care before vision loss occurs.
Find a Retina Specialist Near You
Find a Retina Practice Near You
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that damages the blood vessels in the retina. Diabetes damages blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak, swell, or close off. In later stages, new abnormal blood vessels grow on the retina's surface. People with diabetes need regular dilated eye exams to catch changes early, even if their vision seems fine.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the part of the retina used for sharp central vision. Dry AMD develops slowly as the light-sensitive cells in the macula gradually break down over time. Wet AMD involves abnormal blood vessel growth that can leak fluid and cause faster vision changes. AMD is one of the most common causes of vision loss in adults over 50.
Retinal detachment happens when the retina pulls away from the tissue behind it. It can cause permanent vision loss without prompt treatment. Warning signs include a sudden rise in floaters, streaks of light, or a dark shadow spreading across your vision. This is a medical emergency.
A macular hole is a small break in the center of the retina that blurs and distorts central vision. An epiretinal membrane (sometimes called a macular pucker) is a thin layer of scar tissue on the retina's surface that causes the macula to wrinkle. Both conditions can make it hard to read, drive, or see fine details. Vitrectomy surgery is often used when vision is noticeably affected.
When to See a Retina Specialist
Certain symptoms require urgent evaluation by a retina specialist. Sudden flashes of light, a noticeable increase in floaters, a dark curtain or shadow in your peripheral vision, or blurred and distorted central vision can all signal a serious retinal condition. People with diabetes, a family history of retinal disease, high myopia, or a previous eye injury should ask their eye doctor about retina screenings even without symptoms.
Retina
Co-Management
Some optometrists coordinate care with retina specialists for patients who need ongoing monitoring of conditions like diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration. If you have been referred to a retina specialist, your regular eye doctor may continue to check in between your specialist visits. Ask your eye doctor whether a referral to a retina specialist is right for your situation.
Retinal Diagnostic Testing
Before recommending treatment, your retina specialist will likely use one or more imaging tests to get a clear picture of your retina. These include a detailed cross-section scan of your retina (OCT), fluorescein angiography, which uses a contrast dye to highlight the retinal blood vessels, and retinal photography. Together, these tools help detect problems before they cause noticeable vision loss.
Retinal Treatments and Procedures
Retina specialists use a variety of treatments to manage and repair retinal conditions. Options include anti-VEGF injections (medications that block abnormal blood vessel growth), laser treatment, vitrectomy surgery, and other procedures. The right treatment depends on your diagnosis. A retina specialist will explain your options and what to expect from each one.
Related Retinal Conditions
Retinal vein occlusion occurs when a vein in the retina becomes blocked, causing fluid and blood to leak into the retina. This can lead to blurred or lost vision in part of the visual field. It is more common in people with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. Treatment may include anti-VEGF injections or laser therapy depending on the type and severity.
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a complication of diabetic retinopathy where fluid builds up in the macula, the central part of the retina. This swelling blurs central vision and can affect reading, driving, and recognizing faces. DME is one of the leading causes of vision loss in working-age adults. Anti-VEGF injections and laser treatment are the most common therapies.
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is an inherited condition that causes the light-sensitive cells in the retina to gradually break down over time. It typically begins with night blindness and a loss of peripheral vision, and can progress to tunnel vision or central vision loss. There is currently no cure, but research into gene therapy and other treatments is ongoing. Low vision aids and regular monitoring can help manage the condition.
Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) refers to the growth of new, abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina. These vessels are fragile and can leak fluid or blood, distorting central vision. CNV is most commonly associated with wet AMD but can occur with other retinal conditions. Anti-VEGF injections are the primary treatment to slow or stop the growth of these vessels.
Explore All Retinal Conditions
Browse the full list of retinal conditions covered in this directory.
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Retina Care Topics
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