Diseases of the retina, macula, and vitreous

Central serous retinopathy is a build-up of fluid under the retina that causes blurred or distorted central vision. It often resolves on its own but should be monitored by a retina specialist.

Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the retina’s blood vessels caused by high blood sugar over time, and a leading cause of vision loss in adults with diabetes. It often causes no early symptoms, which is why regular dilated eye exams are essential.

An epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of scar tissue on the surface of the macula that causes blurred or distorted central vision. Mild cases are monitored; significant cases are treated surgically.

Floaters and flashes are common and often harmless, usually from normal age-related changes in the vitreous gel. But a sudden increase can signal a retinal tear or detachment.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) damages the macula, the central retina responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision. It comes in dry and wet forms. Early AMD often has no symptoms, so regular dilated exams matter.

A macular hole is a small break in the macula that causes blurred or distorted central vision, and is repaired surgically.

A retinal artery occlusion is a blockage of the artery supplying the retina, causing sudden, painless vision loss in one eye. It is the eye’s equivalent of a stroke and can signal serious systemic vascular risk.

A retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye. It is a medical emergency. Untreated, it can cause permanent vision loss.

A retinal tear is a break in the retina that can lead to a detachment if untreated. Tears often announce themselves with new flashes and floaters, and sealing one promptly can prevent a detachment.

A retinal vein occlusion is a blockage in a vein draining the retina, which can cause swelling (macular edema) and sudden, painless vision loss. It occurs as branch (BRVO) or central (CRVO) vein occlusion.

Uveitis is inflammation inside the eye that can cause pain, redness, light sensitivity, and blurred vision. Prompt evaluation protects vision and identifies any underlying cause.