The retina is the inner lining of your eye, which plays a big role in using light to generate your vision. Over time, the retina becomes sensitive to aging along with other health conditions that can increase its rate of deterioration. Many of the most common eye conditions are treated by retina specialists NY residents trust to manage the care of one of the most complicated organs in the body.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes and can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Treatment options include laser therapy, which can seal leaking blood vessels and slow the progression of the disease, and anti-VEGF injections, which can reduce swelling and improve vision. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove blood or scar tissue from the retina. It is important for individuals with diabetes to have regular eye exams to detect diabetic retinopathy early and begin treatment as soon as possible. Additionally, maintaining good blood sugar control, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels can help slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
Someone with this condition will usually notice similar symptoms as what you can expect with other retinal eye health problems. For instance, floaters, blurriness, and seeing faded colors are common. A retina doctor in Brooklyn can use laser surgery to help get the blood flowing to the retina properly again. Or, they might recommend a vitrectomy to help stop blood from leaking into the back of your eye.
Macular Degeneration
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of Macular Degeneration, it is important to consult with a retina specialist as soon as possible. A retina doctor, also known as a retina ophthalmologist, is a medical doctor who has completed specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders of the retina. They are experts in treating Macular Degeneration, a condition that affects the central part of the retina, called the macula, and can lead to vision loss. Retina specialists use the most advanced technology and treatment options, including anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, and surgery, to help slow the progression of the disease and preserve vision. By seeking treatment from a retina doctor, individuals with Macular Degeneration can receive the specialized care they need to maintain their vision and quality of life.
Macular degeneration often occurs as an age-related condition, and it leads to gradually increasing blurriness that impacts your ability to see clearly. The macula is part of the retinal tissue, and it can be damaged by age-related thinning or the development of abnormal blood vessels that grow in the back of the eye. People who have a family history of macular degeneration or who smoke are at higher risk for developing the disorder. Retina specialists use medications, lifestyle changes, and laser treatments to help people manage this condition.
Retinal Tears
The retina is surrounded by vitreous fluid that is attached to the retina. With age, or due to other factors, the fluid detaches from the retina. While this normally doesn’t cause a problem, it can sometimes pull too hard on the retina and cause a tear. A retinal hole might also develop due to thinning of the retinal tissue. With a tear, you might notice sudden black spots or floaters in your eye. This form of retinal damage is typically repaired using lasers to reduce the risk of complications.
Macular Pucker
Many age-related eye changes happen naturally and don’t require advanced forms of care. However, some people who experience normal age-related vitreous attachment go on to develop this condition. A macular pucker occurs when a membrane forms on the surface of the retina. This has the effect of causing you to see waviness in your field of vision. People with mild symptoms don’t always need treatment. If you experience more severe distortion in your vision, then Brooklyn NY eye specialists can perform a vitrectomy to remove the vitreous that surrounds your eye and access the membrane for removal.
A retina specialist has gone through additional education and training to perform some of the most complicated procedures available to preserve your vision. Your eye care provider can diagnose these common conditions and perform the necessary procedures to help you improve your prospects of preserving your ability to see clearly as you age. Since these eye conditions are more easily treated in the early stages, make sure to schedule an exam at the first suspicion that you might be having a problem.