What is the Retina?
The retina is a small, light-sensitive membrane made up of millions of photoreceptor cells. Located at the back interior of the eye, the retina receives the light that comes in through the cornea. The center portion of the retina is called the macula, which is responsible for central vision.
Much like film in a camera, the retina senses different intensities of light. The retina processes this light into a series of neural signals, which then travel through the optic nerve to the brain. The brain then deciphers these signals and turns them into images. This is how you see!
The retina is a delicate, highly specialized tissue at the back of the eye that plays a critical role in vision. Because it converts light into signals that are sent to the brain, even small problems affecting the retina can have a major impact on sight. Many retinal conditions can progress without obvious symptoms at first, which is why routine eye care, early diagnosis, and timely treatment are so important.
Our retina specialists diagnose, monitor, and treat a wide range of retinal diseases and disorders, from common age-related conditions to urgent sight-threatening emergencies. With advanced diagnostic technology and specialized treatment options, we are committed to helping preserve and protect your vision.
Common Retinal Conditions
The retina is a very important component of healthy vision. No matter how healthy the rest of the eye is, without the retina, vision can be greatly impaired. Some common retinal diseases and conditions to look out for include:
Retinal Detachment
A retinal detachment occurs when the retina pulls away from the back wall of the eye. This is a serious medical emergency that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. Warning signs may include flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, or the appearance of a shadow or curtain in your vision.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels in the retina, causing them to leak fluid or blood. Over time, diabetic retinopathy can threaten vision, especially if left untreated. Careful monitoring and early treatment are essential to protecting sight.
Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. It can make activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces more difficult. Early detection and ongoing management can help slow progression and preserve functional vision.
Retinal Tears, Flashes, and Floaters
Flashes and floaters are often a normal part of aging, but a sudden onset or noticeable increase can signal a retinal tear or detachment. Prompt evaluation is important to rule out serious complications and determine whether treatment is needed.
Retinal Vascular Conditions
Blocked or leaking blood vessels in the retina can cause blurred or distorted vision and may be associated with underlying health conditions such as hypertension or diabetes. These conditions often require ongoing retinal care and monitoring.
Macular Swelling and Other Retinal Disorders
Inflammation, fluid buildup, and other retinal abnormalities can affect central vision and overall visual quality. Our specialists evaluate each patient carefully to determine the underlying cause and the most appropriate treatment plan.
Specialized Retina Care Close to Home
Our retina specialists are dedicated to treating advanced retinal diseases and complex vision-threatening conditions. Although flashes and floaters should never be ignored, most cases should be initially evaluated by an optometrist or general eye care provider, who can determine whether specialized retina care is needed. When advanced treatment or close retinal management is required, our team is here to provide expert care close to home.
Are you living with a retinal condition? Are you looking for the right retinal specialist for you? Be sure to contact our Portsmouth, Exeter, Somersworth or Kittery locations today!
