Retinal Diseases: Types, Symptoms, and Causes of Retinal Diseases

The retina, a vital inner layer in our eyes, has photoreceptor cells that convert light into vision. However, when affected by retinal diseases, our vision faces challenges.

In this blog, we explore these diverse retinal disorders, their symptoms, and underlying causes. 

Retinal Diseases

Retinal diseases encompass a group of eye conditions and disorders that affect the retina, a thin, delicate layer of tissue positioned at the back of the eye.

Within the retina, numerous light-sensitive cells and other nerve cells work together to receive, process, and organize visual information, enabling you to see.

Different retina diseases can potentially disrupt your vision and, if not addressed, may result in vision loss or blindness. 

Causes of Retinal Diseases

Retinal diseases can have various causes, often resulting from a combination of factors. 

Common causes and risk factors of retinal disorders include:

• Age
• Obesity
• Having diabetes or other diseases
• Smoking
• Eye trauma
• Family history of retinal diseases

If you experience symptoms of retina disease, consult an eye doctor or expert eye surgeon to diagnose and manage your condition.

Symptoms of Retinal Diseases

The symptoms of retina problems can vary depending on the specific condition, but common retina problem symptoms include:

• Seeing floating specks or cobwebs
• Blurred or distorted vision (Sudden or Gradual)
• Blind spots in central vision
• Defects in the side vision

If you experience any sudden or significant changes in your vision or any of the above symptoms, seek immediate medical attention, as early diagnosis and treatment can be crucial in preventing vision loss associated with retinal diseases.

Types of Retinal Diseases

Various diseases and conditions can affect the retina, leading to vision problems or even blindness. Here are some types of retinal diseases:

• Retinal tear- A retinal tear occurs when damage or a rupture occurs in the retina. Symptoms of a retinal tear may include the sudden onset of the appearance of floaters and flashes of light. High Incidence in myopes.

• Diabetic retinopathy- If you have diabetes, the small blood vessels in the retina can deteriorate. In the early stages, it isn’t easy to notice and is painless. But as the condition progresses, it can blur or distort your vision. 

• Retinal detachment- Retinal detachment occurs when fluid accumulates under the retina. This usually happens when fluid passes through a retinal tear, lifting the retina away from the underlying tissue layers. It can lead to blurred vision, reduced peripheral vision, and shadow in the field of vision.

• Epiretinal membrane- An epiretinal membrane is a delicate tissue-like scar or membrane on top of the retina. It doesn’t cause total blindness but can distort your vision, causing objects to appear blurred or misshapen.

• Macular hole- A macular hole is a minor defect in the retina’s center at the back of your eye (macula). The hole leads to distorted or blurred central vision.

• Macular degeneration- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition causing vision loss in old age. In AMD, the center of your retina begins to deteriorate. This is one of the leading photopsia causes, characterized by the perception of flashing lights or sparks.

• Retinitis pigmentosa- It is an uncommon genetic eye disease that affects the retina. It slowly affects the retina and causes night blindness and loss of side vision. There is no cure for this retinal disease. 

Treatment options for a retina disease vary depending on the specific condition and its severity. They may include medications, laser therapy, surgical procedures, or injections. 

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for effectively managing retinal disorders and preserving vision.

Consult Krishna Eye Centre for Expert Eye Care

With 25 years of experience, Krishna Eye Center is a reputable clinic that offers eye treatment in Dadar. The clinic has a reliable team of qualified professionals and the best eye surgeons in Mumbai.

They will conduct a comprehensive examination, accurately diagnose any retinal issues, and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to your needs.

Book your appointment with a click!