Retinal Disorders
Source: MedlinePlus Health Topics, U.S. National Library of Medicine
What are retinal disorders? Retinal disorders are conditions that affect the retina, the thin light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. The retina senses light and sends signals to your brain so you can see. Retinal disorders can cause blurred or distorted vision. Some can lead to vision loss or blindness . What causes retinal disorders? The causes of retinal disorders vary. Aging is a common factor, but other things can raise your risk, such as if you: Smoke Have obesity Have health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure Have had an eye injury or trauma Have a family history of retinal disorders What are common retinal disorders? Some common retinal disorders include: Macular degeneration. Occurs when the macula (the center of the retina that helps you see fine details) breaks down. There are two types: wet and dry macular degeneration. Diabetic retinopathy. Occurs when diabetes damages small blood vessels in the retina, causing them to swell or leak. Retinal detachment. Occurs when the retina pulls away from the back of the eye. This is a medical emergency. Retinal tears. A hole or break in the retina caused when the gel-like substance inside your eye (the vitreous) pulls away. Retinoblastoma. A rare cancer of the retina that most often affects young children. Macular pucker. Scar tissue that forms on the macula and distorts vision. Macular hole. A small opening in the macula, often related to aging or injury. It can blur or distort central vision. Eye floaters. Small specks, cobwebs, or threads that drift across your vision. These are more common with aging. Retina pigmentosa. A group of inherited disorders (passed down through families) that slowly damage the retina and cause loss of night and side (peripheral) vision. What are the symptoms of retinal disorders? Symptoms can vary, but most retinal disorders affect your vision. Common symptoms include: Blurred or distorted vision Loss of central or side (peripheral) vision Flashes of light Seeing f