Why Eye Injections are Necessary for Retinal Problems
Retinal diseases can develop silently, with vision loss often appearing suddenly. Early warning signs include:
- Blurred vision
- Floaters and flashing lights
- Dark or empty spots in vision
- Poor night vision
- Changes in color perception
- Gradual or sudden vision loss
Since conditions like diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment can progress without symptoms, early detection is critical. A comprehensive eye exam at Campbell, Cunningham, Taylor, & Haun can identify even the smallest changes in your retina, allowing for timely intervention to slow disease progression and protect your sight.
Understanding Your Treatment Options
If you’re diagnosed with a retinal condition, early treatment is key. Options include:
– Laser therapy (photocoagulation)
– Surgery (vitrectomy)
– Cold therapy (cryotherapy)
– Medication & lifestyle management
– Intravitreal eye injections
Among these, eye injections (intravitreal injections) may sound intimidating, but they are one of the most effective treatments for serious retinal diseases like:
- Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
- Diabetic Retinopathy
- Retinal Vein Occlusion
How Do Eye Injections Work?
Retinal injections deliver anti-VEGF medications (Lucentis, Eylea, Avastin) to block abnormal blood vessel growth or steroids to reduce inflammation. The procedure is quick and relatively painless—your eye is numbed, and in just seconds, the medication is injected into the vitreous (gel-like substance in the eye).
Key Benefits of Retinal Eye Injections:
- Over 90% of wet AMD patients maintain their vision with treatment (compared to just 10% without it).
- 30-40% of patients gain at least three lines of improved vision on an eye chart.
- Regular treatments help stabilize or improve vision over time.
Early Treatment Saves Vision
The sooner you begin treatment, the better your chances of preserving your sight. While effectiveness may decrease over time for some patients, intravitreal injections remain one of the best defenses against blindness in progressive retinal diseases.
Routine eye exams are the best way to catch retinal diseases early and prevent irreversible vision loss.
Book Your Eye Exam Today!
Don’t wait until it’s too late—call (865) 584-0905 to make an appointment at one of our convenient locations.