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How It Can Be Repaired Again: World Retina Week (21st to 27th September)
Author: Dr. Sanghamitra Kanungo, Kar Vision Eye Hospital Pvt Ltd Bhubaneswar
New Delhi, September 27, 2022:
The retina is a layer of tissue located in the back of the eye that features several light-sensitive photoreceptor cells(rods and cones)and other cells that receive and organise visual information. These cells detect light and transfer images to the brain, via the optic nerve thereby enabling people to see. Retinal diseases vary widely, but most of them cause visual symptoms. While some can cause mild vision issues, others can lead to blindness. Therefore, in case of any abnormality in vision, one should consider it an emergency and immediately visit an ophthalmologist.
With passing time and advancement in equipment and technology has made retinal diagnosis more precise. Apart from making treatments less invasive, technological and medical innovations are also helping to restore and improve the vision of several patients.
What are the Common Retinal Disorders?
Some of the common retinal diseases include:
Retinal Detachment
The condition occurs when fluid build-up through a retinal tear results in the detachment of the retina from the choroid (the eye layer that provides the retina with oxygen and nutrients). It is an emergency, if left untreated, can also lead to permanent vision loss.
Retinal Tear
A retinal tear occurs when there is a hole or tear in the retina. It usually occurs when the vitreous (a jelly-like substance in the eye) attached to the retina pulls hard enough to tear it. The vitreous can detach as part of the ageing process or can also result from trauma. People with this condition experience flashes of light or floaters or blurry vision.
Retinopathy
Damage to the blood vessels of the retina can cause bleed and leakage with fluid accumulation that can affect vision termed as retinopathy. There are different systemic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, sickle cell disease and cancer which can cause retinopathy. As diabetics in India is increasing so also diabetic retinopathy which is now becoming a leading cause of visual loss. All diabetics are at a risk of visual loss, therefore a regular follow up with an Ophthalmologist and control of parameters is essential.
Macular Degeneration
Since macular degeneration most commonly occurs in older adults, it is also known as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In this condition, the degeneration of the macula results in distorted central vision which can worsen over time and also cause permanent vision loss.
Retinal vein occlusion
It occurs when a branch or the central vein of the retina is blocked. May occur in patients with diabetes, hypertension, glaucoma or natural aging process. It causes bleeding and macular edema leading to visual loss.
Retinitis Pigmentosa
It is a rare genetic degenerative causes defective night vision caused due to loss of photo receptor cells of the retina. The condition can cause a progressive loss of vision.
Symptoms of a diseases of Retina
Retinal conditions and disorders can have a number of identical symptoms, which may include:
● Decrease vision
● Seeing floaters or flashes of light
● Blurry vision
● Double vision
● Peripheral shadows
● Variations in colour perception
● Problem with vision at night
● Distorted central vision
● Sudden vision loss
● Black spots
Can Retina Damage be reversed?
A timely diagnosis and early treatment can prevent the disease and further visual loss. Different treatment options available are:
● Laser Photocoagulation can be used to repair a tear ,used in treating diabetic retinopathy and venous occlusion.
● Intra vitreal anti VEGF injections are used in treatment of diabetic retinopathy, vitreous haemorrhage, age related macular degeneration and retinal vein occlusion.
● Vitrectomy (a surgical process)is another treatment for advanced diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment.
● A diet rich in nutrients, adequate rest, control of systemic parameters with efficient physical and emotional stress management can also help improve retinal strength
Retinal problems can occur in anyone and cause difficulty in vision. Early detection is the key to stopping the disease from worsening further. In case of any changes in vision, one should immediately consult with an eye specialist.
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