Retinal diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, affect millions of Americans. These conditions slowly damage the retina, a thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye that converts images into electrical signals that the brain interprets as vision.
Even though retinal diseases are fairly common, they typically develop over years or decades, making them difficult to identify early on. But if you notice certain symptoms, you may want to schedule an eye exam.
At Eye Surgeons Associates, which serves patients in Canton, Livonia, and Monroe, Michigan, our team of expert ophthalmologists specializes in retinal disease treatment. Read on to discover common retinal disease symptoms so you can preserve your vision.
Almost everyone experiences blurred vision at one time or another, usually because of allergies, sunlight exposure, or a change in eyeglass prescription. However, mild blurring typically improves once you rest your eyes or change environments.
Blurring and distortion from retinal disease don’t improve with these changes, and they tend to be more problematic. For example, you might have difficulty reading or recognizing faces. Or, straight lines in the distance might look wavy.
Don’t ignore these symptoms. You might need a new prescription, but they could also indicate something more serious.
Flashes are brief sparks of light or lightning streaks in your vision. Sometimes they happen after looking at something bright, like flash photography or the sun. But if these sparks of light occur frequently without a clear cause, retinal disease may be to blame.
Floaters, which look like small, dark flecks or strands of hair, often affect older adults due to aging. If floaters and flashes appear together, it may point to a retinal tear or retinal detachment. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency, so if you experience these symptoms, contact our nearest office immediately.
Retinal diseases, such as retinal vein occlusion, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment, can make it seem like a curtain is being drawn or a shadow is moving over your sight.
At first, the shadow may appear mild and be attributed to going inside after spending a few hours in the sun. But as the disease progresses, it often darkens, blocking out large areas of your vision. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent further progression and help protect your eyes.
Retinal disease often develops slowly, but that doesn’t mean you should wait to have your eyes examined. If you develop any of the above symptoms, contact our nearest office to schedule a retinal disease evaluation. This is especially true if your vision changes are sudden or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Although most retinal diseases can’t be cured, when they’re identified early, they can often be managed and kept from worsening.
Retinal disease can have serious consequences, like vision loss, but that outcome isn’t guaranteed. If you’re concerned about your risk, get screened. We can assess your retinal health and make custom treatment recommendations.
Request a consultation at your nearest Eye Surgeons Associates office. Call us to book an appointment at your convenience.
