What is Retina
The retina is a thin layer of light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye. It plays a crucial role in vision by converting light into electrical signals, which are then sent to the brain via the optic nerve. Any damage or disorder affecting the retina can lead to partial or complete vision loss if not treated promptly.
Types of Retina
Retinal Detachment occurs when the retina pulls away from its supportive tissue, causing vision loss. Symptoms include floaters, flashes of light, and a shadow over vision. It can result from aging, trauma, diabetes, or extreme myopia. Immediate medical intervention is crucial to prevent permanent damage.
Symptoms of Retina
Floaters (tiny dark spots moving across vision)
Flashes of light
Blurred or distorted vision
Dark or blank spots in vision
Difficulty seeing in low light
Sudden vision loss
Treatments
Anti-VEGF Injections help treat macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy by preventing abnormal blood vessel growth. Steroid Injections reduce inflammation and swelling in conditions like macular edema, aiding in vision preservation.
Precautions
To maintain eye health, control blood sugar and blood pressure to prevent diabetic retinopathy. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, protect your eyes from trauma with protective eyewear, and schedule regular eye exams for early issue detection.
Before Surgery
Eye Examination: A thorough retinal check-up using OCT or fluorescein angiography. Medications: Avoid blood thinners if advised by your doctor. Fasting: May be required before eye surgery for safety.
During Surgery
Surgery involves local or general anesthesia, with the procedure varying based on the condition (laser, vitrectomy, gas bubble, or scleral buckle). Most surgeries take 1-2 hours.
After Surgery
Post-Surgery Care: Eye drops and antibiotics help prevent infection. If a gas bubble is used, a face-down position is essential for recovery. Healing typically takes 2-6 weeks, depending on the procedure.