Eye diseases related to the retina are some of the most common vision problems worldwide. While some may not be preventable because of genetics, others are avoidable.
Keep reading to find out why a healthy retina is key for good vision!
Why is a Healthy Retina Vital for Your Vision?
The retina, located at the back of the eyeball, converts light into signals. These signals are then sent to the brain through the optic nerve. The brain then interprets the signals into images.
An unhealthy retina isn’t able to send clear signals to the brain, which can lead to vision impairment or loss. When it comes to retinal problems, you might not have any symptoms.
The retina doesn’t have nerve endings, so you may continue to see clearly. You may not even feel any pain with retina impairment.
There are different retinal diseases and conditions. Most are treatable when they’re detected early through a comprehensive eye exam.
What are Some of the Retina Diseases You Should Know About?
Some of the retinal diseases include:
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
This is a condition that mainly develops in people above the age of 40. It affects the macula. The macula is in the middle of the retina and handles the central vision.
AMD can develop in two ways. The first is if macular tissues grow thin. The second is when abnormal blood cells form in the eye and release fluids into the macula. This results in blurred central vision.
Retinal Detachment
A detached retina is a retina that has detached. When detached, it pulls away from the choroid layer at the back of the eye. The choroid layer provides nourishment and oxygen.
This usually happens due to a build-up of fluids behind the retinal tissue. Symptoms of a detached retina include flashes and floaters.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy can develop in anyone that has diabetes, either type 1 or type 2. When it first develops, it may cause no symptoms and only mild vision problems.
It’s caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina. If left untreated, it can eventually lead to blindness.
If you have diabetes and you have uncontrolled blood sugar levels, you are more likely to develop diabetic retinopathy.
Retinal Vein Occlusions
If veins in the retina become blocked, it’s known as retinal vein occlusion. The damage occurs when a blocked vein in the eye stops blood from draining from the retina.
This leads to raised pressure inside the eye and bleeding, swelling, and leaking fluid. With retinal vein occlusions, patients may experience blurry vision or even permanent blindness in the eye that it occurred.
What are the Risk Factors for Retinal Conditions and Diseases?
Many factors can contribute to AMD, retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal conditions. They include:
Genetics
AMD is prevalent among older people, but your risk of developing AMD increases significantly if someone in your family has it.
Lifestyle
Leading an unhealthy lifestyle can increase your risk of developing retinal conditions. This includes unhealthy habits like smoking and eating poorly.
Smoking impairs blood flow in the eye, which leaves the retina undernourished. This makes it more vulnerable to conditions such as AMD, tearing, and detachment.
Processed food contributes to obesity. This raises your blood pressure and may cause the blood vessels in your eyes to rupture.
How Can You Maintain Good Retina Health?
Quitting smoking, exercising, and eating healthily can reduce your risk of developing retinal conditions. The eye doctors at Joshi Eye Institute recommend that you eat plenty of leafy greens, fruits, nuts, and fish.
These will provide you with essential nutrients such as lutein, vitamin E, dietary zinc, vitamin c, and zeaxanthin. These nutrients are good for eye health.
Your Retina Health Experts
Joshi Eye Institute conducts tests such as the Amsler grid test and the slit-lamp examination to look for symptoms of retinal diseases. If there are any issues with your retina, Dr. Joshi has various treatment options designed to treat your specific condition.
Concerned about the health of your retinas? Schedule a comprehensive eye examination with Joshi Eye Institute in Boynton Beach, FL today!
