Retinal Diseases
At Gawler Eye Clinic, our experienced ophthalmologists are dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and managing retinal diseases. If you have concerns about your eye health or are experiencing symptoms related to a retinal disease, please schedule an appointment with us. We are committed to helping you maintain clear and healthy vision.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 50. It affects the macula, a small but vital part of the retina responsible for central vision. There are two main types of AMD, “dry” and “wet.” Dry AMD involves the breakdown of light-sensitive cells in the macula, while wet AMD is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes and occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. It can lead to vision problems, including diabetic macular edema (DME) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).
Retinal Detachment & Retinal Tears
Retinal detachment or retinal tear is a medical emergency that occurs when the retina separates from its underlying tissue. This separation can lead to severe vision loss if not treated promptly.
Retinal Vein Occlusion
A retinal vein occlusion happens when a blood vessel carrying blood away from the retina becomes blocked. This can result in swelling and bleeding in the retina, affecting vision.
Full Thickness Macular Hole & Epiretinal Membrane
A full-thickness macular hole is a condition affecting the centre of the retina, causing a small break in the macula. This can result in blurred or distorted central vision. An epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of tissue that forms on the surface of the retina, impacting vision by distorting or pulling on the retina.
Gawler Eye Clinic Services
The symptoms of retinal diseases may vary depending on the specific condition but can include:
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Loss of central vision
- Dark spots or floaters in the field of vision
- Sudden flashes of light
- A curtain or shadow over part of the visual field
Treatment options
Intravitreal Injections: Medications can be injected into the eye to treat conditions like wet AMD and DME.
Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can be used to seal leaky blood vessels and repair retinal tears.
Surgery: Surgical procedures like vitrectomy are employed to treat retinal detachment, macular holes, epiretinal membranes or severe cases of diabetic retinopathy.
Medication Management: For some retinal diseases, medications can be prescribed to slow the progression of the condition.
Prevention
Preventing retinal diseases often involves managing underlying health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Regular eye examinations are essential for early detection and prompt treatment. Lifestyle choices, including a healthy diet, exercise, and not smoking, can also contribute to retinal health.