Retinal Diseases

Macular Degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive condition that is caused by a thinning of the macula. Macular X Trusted Source Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) National Eye Institute Go to Source degeneration is the most common cause of age-related vision loss and can cause loss of central vision, distorted vision, blind spots, and changes in the way colors are seen.

Retinal Detachment

Retinal X Trusted Source Retinal Detachment National Eye Institute Go to Source detachment is a medical emergency that is caused by the retina separating from the wall of the eye. If your peripheral vision suddenly grows dark or you experience shadows in your visual field or a sudden increase in flashers and/or floaters, call us immediately.

Retinal Tear

Retinal X Trusted Source Retinal Tears American Society of Retinal Specialists Go to Source tears may be caused by aging, trauma, or injury to the eye. A retinal tear may lead to retinal detachment if not treated promptly and may cause similar symptoms such as shadows or flashers and floaters.

Macular Hole

Aging or eye trauma can cause the vitreous to pull away from the retina, and this can result in a macular hole. Symptoms of a macular X Trusted Source Macular Hole American Society of Retinal Specialists Go to Source hole may include blurry central vision, straight lines appearing wavy, and other visual disturbances. Vitrectomy is performed as a treatment for macular holes.

Macular Pucker

With age, the vitreous can begin to shrink. This may lead to the formation of scar tissue, which can cause the macula to pucker or wrinkle. A macular X Trusted Source Macular Puck National Eye Institute Go to Source pucker can cause distorted or disturbed vision, and sometimes requires surgical treatment.

Cystoid Macular Edema

When the macula swells or becomes inflamed, it may result in cystoid macular edema. This can lead to a loss in central vision. Common treatments for cystoid macular edema include surgery, injections, and anti-inflammatory eye drops.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Patients with diabetes are susceptible to diabetic retinopathy, which can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina. There are a number of stages of diabetic retinopathy, and early treatment is the best way to avoid permanent vision loss.

Flashers and Floaters

Flashers and floaters are normal visual disturbances that affect everyone. However, a sudden increase in flashers and floaters may be a sign of a serious retinal condition and requires an examination by an experienced eye doctor.

Retinal Vein Occlusion

Retinal veins are responsible for transporting nutrients, oxygen, and blood to and from the retina. A blockage in a retinal vein can cause retinal vein occlusion X Trusted Source Central Retinal Vein Occlusion American Society of Retinal Specialists Go to Source (RVO) , for which there is no treatment. Patients with retinal vein occlusion risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, macular edema, glaucoma, or inflammatory conditions require monitoring by an experienced ophthalmologist.

Vitreous Hemorrhage

Normally, the vitreous gel in the middle of the eye does not contain blood vessels. However, certain conditions like diabetic retinopathy, tumors, carotid artery disease, and Terson’s syndrome may cause blood vessels to grow in the vitreous. A rupture of one of these blood vessels can lead to blood within the vitreous, which may cause vision loss. Vitreous hemorrhage may be treated with a vitrectomy or retinal laser photocoagulation.

Retinal Laser Photocoagulation

Retinal Laser Photocoagulation is performed as a treatment for conditions such as retinal tears, retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to prevent or slow the growth of blood vessels in the retina or vitreous.

Vitrectomy

A vitrectomy is performed to remove the vitreous and replace it with a saline solution. A X Trusted Source What is Vitrectomy? American Academy of Ophthalmology Go to Source vitrectomy may be treatment for retinal detachment, retinal vein occlusion, diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, and cataract surgery complications.