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Common Retinal Conditions​​​​​​​​​

Diabetic Retinopathy

 

What is Diabetic Retinopathy?

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to high blood sugar levels. Over time, the excess glucose in the blood can lead to the occlusion of the small vessels surrounding the retina, thus causing it to lose some of the blood supply. Consequently, the eye tries to build new blood vessels; but they are structurally abnormal and tend to leak.

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To help repair the damage, an eye surgeon removes the vitreous gel from the eye to access and repair the retina, sealing any tears or leaks and replacing the gel with a saline solution or gas bubble to help the retina heal.

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Early detection and management are essential to prevent vision loss. 

 

Symptoms of Diabetic Retinopathy:

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Dark spots or floaters

• Impaired color vision

• Empty or dark areas in the vision

• Difficulty seeing ​​​​

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Retinal Detachment

 

What is Retinal Detachment?
A retinal detachment is a condition when the thin cells forming the retina pull away from the underlying layer of blood vessels, which supplies the eye with oxygen and nutrients. ​

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In order to repair the detachment, the eye surgeon removes the vitreous gel to access the retina, repairs any tears or holes, and uses a laser or cryotherapy to reattach the retina. The vitreous gel is replaced with a gas bubble or silicone oil to hold the retina in place as it heals, restoring vision and preventing further detachment.

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Some of the common causes include extreme near-sightedness, ageing, and eye injury. 

 

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment:

 

• Flashes of light in one or both eyes

• Gradual reduction in peripheral (side) vision

• The sudden appearance of floaters

• A shadow or "curtain" over part of the vision field ​​

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Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

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What is AMD?

AMD is a common eye condition that affects central vision, often occurring in people over 50. Some of the major risk factors include age, family history, smoking, and high blood pressure.

 

Treatment Options for AMD:

• Anti-VEGF injections

• Photodynamic therapy

• Lifestyle changes and dietary supplements

• Low vision aids to support vision quality

 

Retinal Vein Occlusion

 

Retinal vein occlusion is a blockage of the small veins that carry blood away from the retina, leading to swelling and vision problems. It is commonly associated with high blood pressure, diabetes, and glaucoma.

 

Treatment Options for Retinal Vein Occulsion:

• Anti-VEGF injections to reduce swelling

• Corticosteroid injections

• Laser treatment to improve blood flow

• Managing underlying health conditions​​​​