Common Retinal Diseases

The retina is essential for vision, capturing light and converting it into electrical signals that the brain interprets as images. While the retina has a single function—processing light to enable sight—without it, vision would be impossible.

Damage to the retina can lead to mild to severe vision impairment, including complete blindness. Several factors increase the risk of retinal diseases, including:

• Age
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Family history of eye disease
• Eye trauma
• Chronic conditions like diabetes

Because retinal diseases can cause permanent vision loss, early detection and treatment are critical.

Common Retinal Diseases and Their Causes

Several retinal conditions can affect vision, each with distinct causes and progression. The most common include:

Diabetic Retinopathy

• Affects one-third of individuals with diabetes.
• High blood sugar damages small blood vessels in the retina, causing leaks and retinal tissue damage.
• Can lead to vision loss if untreated.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

• A leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
• Occurs when blood vessels beneath the macula leak or when the macula itself deteriorates.
• The macula controls sharp, central vision, making AMD a serious threat to eyesight.

Retinitis Pigmentosa

• A genetic disorder that causes the gradual degeneration of light-sensitive retinal cells (rods and cones).
• Leads to difficulty seeing in low light, reduced color perception, and blurry vision.

Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)

• Occurs when a vein responsible for draining blood from the retina becomes blocked.
• Blockages can result from blood clots, hardened arteries, or plaque buildup.
• Can cause swelling, bleeding, and vision loss.

Retinal Tears & Detachments

• A retinal tear or detachment happens when the retina separates from the back of the eye.
• Often linked to aging, as the vitreous gel inside the eye shrinks, pulling on the retina.
• Can also be caused by eye trauma or pre-existing eye conditions.

Symptoms of Retinal Diseases

Retinal conditions often develop silently, with symptoms appearing only after significant damage has occurred. Common warning signs include:

• Blurred or distorted vision
• Floaters (small spots or lines in your field of vision)
• Blind spots in central or peripheral vision
• Sudden flashes of light
• Loss of vision in one or both eyes

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention to prevent further damage.

Treatment Options for Retinal Diseases

While some retinal conditions can be managed, others require surgical intervention. The best treatment depends on the severity and type of disease.

• Laser Therapy – Used to seal leaking blood vessels in diabetic retinopathy and AMD.
• Medications – Injections may help slow the progression of AMD and RVO.
• Surgery – Required for retinal tears or detachments to restore vision.
• Vision Rehabilitation – Helps individuals adjust to permanent vision changes.

Protect Your Vision with Regular Eye Exams

Many retinal diseases progress without symptoms until irreversible damage occurs. Routine eye exams, including retinal imaging, are essential for early detection and treatment.

Schedule Your Retinal Exam Today

EyeCare Optical – Sevierville (Winfield Dunn Pkwy)
750 Winfield Dunn Parkway, Suite 120
Sevierville, TN 37876

Prioritizing preventive eye care is the key to preserving vision for a lifetime. Don’t wait until symptoms appear—early detection can save your sight.