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What Are Retinal Diseases?

Retinal diseases affect the retina or the back layer of the eye. The retina is responsible for converting light into electrical signals that the optic nerve sends to the brain, which turns those signals into what you see around you. The brain then turns those signals into images, allowing you to see what’s around you. The center of the retina is called the macula, which is responsible for the majority of our vision and can come with its own set of disorders.

Screening and Evaluation of Retinal Diseases

Eye Consultants is well equipped to diagnose and manage many retinal diseases. For many people, it is crucial that they be screened and monitored for a number of different retinal conditions:

  • Anyone with diabetes should have yearly dilated eye examinations
  • Those on Planquenil and other high risk medications
  • People 55 and older with family history of age-related macular degeneration

Retinal Disease Symptoms

The symptoms you want to look out for can differ depending on the type of retinal disease, but some of the more common symptoms include:

  • Vision changes (blurred or distorted vision)
  • Floaters
  • Flashes of light in one or both eyes
  • Blind spots in your central or peripheral vision

At Eye Consultants, there are a number of different retinal diseases we diagnose and manage, including:
  • Diabetes-related retinopathy
  • Age-related macular degeneration
  • Plaquenil (high risk medication) maculopathy
  • Retinal detachment
  • Retinal tears or holes
  • Retinal vein occlusion
  • Central serous retinopathy
  • Birdshot chorioretinopathy
  • Macular hole
  • Macular edema

What is Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is a disease in which deposits called drusen form under the retina over time and may cause distortions in vision. This is the “Dry” form of ARMD. Sometimes, the area around these deposits becomes leaky or bleeds, leading to the “Wet” form of ARMD which often requires injections to treat the disorder.

Those at risk for ARMD include:
  • Those over 60 years old
  • Female gender
  • Caucasian race
  • Smokers
  • People with family history of ARMD
  • Obesity
  • Cardiovascular issues

What to Expect with Retinal Monitoring

Our specialists at Eye Consultants in Wilmington check for retinal diseases during every eye exam. During your exam, we’ll dilate your eyes to better see the back of the retina. If we see any abnormalities, we’ll recommend further testing and, if needed, build a treatment plan.

Once a diagnosis is made, we’ll recommend the best treatment for your specific disorder. Surgery, injections, and laser treatments may be used to stop the disease or slow down the progression of it. We’ll continue retinal monitoring to ensure we don’t need to change any part of your treatment.

Schedule A Consultation

Don’t let another day go by without having your eyes checked. An eye exam at Eye Consultants not only helps to ensure you’re seeing clearly, but it can also catch a retinal disease before it becomes more serious. Call our Wilmington, DE office at 302-581-8087 or leave us a message using our online contact form. We proudly serve the Wilmington, Dover, Middletown, Newark, Smyrna, and Townsend, DE areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a retinal disease?

A retinal disease is any condition that affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for vision. Common retinal diseases include macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment, which can impair vision or lead to blindness if untreated.

Can retinal diseases be cured?

While some retinal diseases can be managed or improved with treatment, not all can be fully cured. Early detection and ongoing care are critical for preserving vision and slowing disease progression.

How are retinal diseases treated?

Treatment for retinal diseases varies depending on the condition and may include medications, laser therapy, injections, or surgery. Regular monitoring by an eye specialist ensures the most effective management plan.

Can a damaged retina heal itself?

The retina cannot heal itself from significant damage, but prompt treatment can often prevent further deterioration and, in some cases, restore partial vision. The extent of recovery depends on the type and severity of the damage.

What happens if retinal disease is left untreated?

Untreated retinal diseases can lead to progressive vision loss and, in severe cases, permanent blindness. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preserving eye health and vision.

How does an optometrist test for retinal damage?

Optometrists and ophthalmologists use various methods to detect retinal damage, such as dilated eye exams, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and retinal photography. These tools help evaluate the retinas condition and detect early signs of disease.

Does insurance cover retinal damage?

Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover the diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases. It is advisable to confirm coverage with your insurance provider.

Can vision be restored after retinal damage?

Restoring vision after retinal damage depends on the condition and its severity. While some treatments can improve vision, others aim to prevent further loss rather than restore sight.

What are the most common retinal diseases?

The most common retinal diseases are macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, and retinitis pigmentosa. Each affects vision differently and requires tailored treatment.

What should I avoid doing if I have retinal damage?

If you have retinal damage, avoid activities that strain your eyes, such as prolonged screen time or heavy lifting, which can increase intraocular pressure. Follow your doctors recommendations and prioritize regular check-ups to monitor your condition.

Experienced Experts

Dr. Dealy and our team of ophthalmologists and optometrists have decades of experience providing the best in vision and eye care to patients all over Delaware. You could not be in better hands! 

Dr. Heather Dealy

Dr. Heather Dealy

Board-Certified Ophthalmologist & Glaucoma Specialist
Dr. Sean Considine

Dr. Sean Considine

Comprehensive Ophthalmologist
Dr. Alissa Long

Dr. Alissa Long

Comprehensive Optometrist

Begin Your Journey Here

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Contact Us Today

Your health is our top priority and we look forward to assisting you in your eyecare journey. Please call the office at (302) 998-2333 or fill out our contact form to schedule your appointment.

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This is an excellent facility. I have glaucoma and have been treated by Dr. Dealy for over four years. Mine is not an easy case and Dr. Dealy has been so knowledgeable and thorough in answering all questions. She has always spent the time necessary to put me at ease. The front office staff are kind, welcoming, and genuine.

Professional, but friendly. Staff, including the doctors, are knowledgeable, ensuring patient understands diagnosis and treatment options.

When it comes to my eyes, it’s one less thing I have to worry about because I know Eye Consultants is taking care of all my needs.

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