The retina is a thin layer of tissue located at the back of the eye that contains light-sensitive cells that are responsible for vision. Any damage or disease that affects the retina can lead to vision problems or even blindness. In this blog post, we will discuss the symptoms of retinal disease and when to seek medical attention.
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision is a common symptom of retinal disease. It occurs when the retina is unable to focus light properly onto the optic nerve. This can cause images to appear fuzzy, hazy, or unclear.
Floaters
Floaters are small specks or cobweb-like shapes that appear in your field of vision. They are caused by tiny pieces of debris that float in the vitreous gel inside the eye. While they are usually harmless, sudden or excessive floaters can be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment.
Flashes of Light
Flashes of light can occur when the retina is stimulated by pressure, which can be a sign of retinal disease. They may appear as bright streaks, flashes, or arcs of light in your vision.
Blind Spots
A blind spot is an area of the visual field that is missing or partially missing. It can be caused by damage to the retina or the optic nerve. If you notice a blind spot, it is important to see an eye doctor immediately.
Distorted Vision
Distorted vision can be a sign of macular degeneration, a condition that affects the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. It can cause straight lines to appear wavy, and objects to appear distorted or blurry.
Color Blindness
Color blindness is a condition that affects a person’s ability to distinguish between certain colors. It is caused by abnormalities in the cones, which are the cells in the retina responsible for color vision.
Loss of Peripheral Vision
Loss of peripheral vision is a symptom of glaucoma, a condition that affects the optic nerve. It can cause tunnel vision, which is a condition where only a small portion of the visual field is visible.
In conclusion, retinal diseases can cause a variety of symptoms, including blurred vision, floaters, flashes of light, blind spots, distorted vision, color blindness, and loss of peripheral vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away to prevent further damage to your eyesight. Regular eye exams can also help detect retinal diseases early, when they are most treatable.
