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Macular Degeneration

The macula is a part of the retina in the back of the eye that is responsible for the central (or reading) vision. The center of the macula is called the fovea. This area gives us our most clear and sharp vision because it has the highest concentration of photoreceptor cells. Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the number one cause of irreversible blindness in people who are 50 years or older in most industrialized countries.

AMD starts out as Dry AMD, which is the most common form with approximately 1.6 million new cases in the US each year. Although it can lead to severe vision loss, it progresses slowly and without the formation of abnormal blood vessels. Dry AMD can progress to Wet AMD. Approximately 150,000 new cases of Wet AMD are diagnosed in the US each year. It is caused by abnormal blood vessels under the macula that leak fluid and or blood. This form of AMD can rapidly lead to scar formation and permanent central vision loss. Early detection and timely treatment are very important.

Click here for more information about Macular Degeneration.

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Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that weakens the blood vessels that supply nourishment to the retina (the light-sensitive lining in the back of the eye where vision is focused). These weak vessels can leak, swell or develop thin branches, causing a loss of vision. Changes to your vision may not be noticeable at first. But in its advanced stages, the disease can cause blurred or cloudy vision, floaters and blind spots – and, eventually, blindness. This damage is irreversible. Diabetic retinopathy is the most common diabetic eye complication and a leading cause of blindness in American adults. Macular edema, which is leaking fluid that causes blurred vision, often occurs with diabetic retinopathy.

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Retinal Tears and Detachment

Retinal tears may occur in patients with myopia (nearsightedness), as the condition may cause the vitreous to pull away from the retina. Although a retinal tear does not cause pain, patients may experience flashes or floaters in their field of vision, a reduction of vision, a shadow or curtain forming in the peripheral vision, or other vision changes. It is important to see your doctor at the first sign of a retinal tear.

Early detection of a retinal tear can often prevent the retinal from detaching through prompt treatment. A retinal tear is usually treated with a laser to burn the area around the tear, causing it to scar and seal the retina to the tissue underneath it. This prevents fluid from flowing through the tear and leading to retinal detachment. Treatment for a retinal tear is usually effective in relieving symptoms and preventing retinal detachment from occurring.

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Retinal Vein Occlusion

A retinal vein occlusion occurs when an artery supplying blood to the eye hardens or swells and presses on a nearby vein and blocks it, making it difficult for blood to leave the eye. The restricted circulation leads to high pressure in the eye, which can in turn cause swelling, bleeding, growth of abnormal blood vessels, and partial or total vision loss.

Vascular occlusions do not cause a change in physical appearance, and they can occur with no pain or noticeable loss of vision. For these reasons, it is important to have routine eye exams and also to check one’s own vision by closing one eye at a time.

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Cystoid Macular Edema

Cystoid macular edema is a common condition that involves swelling in the macula, the center part of the vision that allows us to see objects with great detail. This swelling occurs as fluid builds up in the layers of the macula, gradually blurring vision. 

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Macular Holes & Epiretinal Membrane

The macula is a small spot in the center of the retina that focuses light at a sharp point and allows us to see objects in detail. This is especially useful for reading, driving and other everyday activities that require clear vision. A macular hole often develops as part of the natural aging process, when the vitreous gel thins and separates from the macula. This can pull on the macula and cause a hole to form. Macular holes can also develop from injury, inflammation, retinal detachment or other eye diseases.

In its early stages, a macular hole may cause a small blurry or distorted area in the center of vision. As the hole grows over time, central vision progressively worsens, and peripheral vision may also be affected. There are three different stages of macular holes, including foveal detachments, partial-thickness holes and full-thickness holes. Each stage can progress to the next if left untreated.

Most macular holes can be successfully treated through vitrectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the vitreous gel and stop it from pulling on the retina. The doctor then inserts a mixture of air and gas into the area to keep its shape. This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia and is considered a safe and effective treatment for a macular hole.

To learn more about our Retina and Vitreous disease treatments, call 877-316-4886 today to schedule an appointment.