What is a Retina Specialist?

Your retina is one of the most critical parts of your eye. It’s responsible for capturing images and sending them to your brain. If you have a problem with your retina, it can lead to vision loss. 

What Is the Difference Between an Ophthalmologist and a Retina Specialist? 

When it comes to eye care, there are a lot of different specialties. Ophthalmologists are general eye doctors who can treat a variety of conditions. 

On the other hand, a retina specialist has specialized in ophthalmology, then further specialized in diseases of the retina and vitreous body (the transparent, colorless, gelatinous mass that fills the space in the eye between the lens and the retina). Typically they go to medical school for a total of ten years. Retina specialists diagnose retinal diseases using highly technical equipment and testing. They work in both hospitals and clinics treating a wide variety of eye conditions in both adults and children.

If you’re experiencing any problems with your vision, it’s essential to see the right specialist for treatment.

What Do Retina Specialists Treat?

Problems with your retina can lead to severe vision loss if left untreated but many eye problems can be treated if caught early on. These specialists can help you get your vision back on track and improve your quality of life. Our retina specialists can help treat multiple vision issues such as macular degeneration, retinal tears, endophthalmitis, retinal vein occlusion, and diabetic retinopathy. 

How Often Should You See a Retina Specialist?

The best way to protect your vision is to get regular checkups from a retina specialist. Most people should see a retina specialist at least 1-2 years for a comprehensive eye exam, but you may need to schedule more frequent appointments depending on your risk factors. If you have a family history of eye problems, are diabetic, or have experienced a recent injury to your eye, you may need to see a retina specialist every six months or even more often. If any problems are detected, they can be treated early on, and you may be able to avoid profound vision loss.

If you aren’t due for a regular eye exam, there are some signs and symptoms that should alert you to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor. If you experience any of the following symptoms, schedule an exam as soon as possible:

Blurry Vision: Blurry vision may be an indication that it’s time for new glasses. It may also be a sign of a larger health issue and should always be taken seriously.

Sudden Appearance of Visual Disturbances: A sudden onset of visual disturbances such as floaters, flashes of light, or obstruction of vision could be a sign of a serious vision-threatening issue such as retinal tear, hole, or detachment. 

Headaches: Headaches can be one of the early warning signs of a change in vision.

Eye Pain or Eye Fatigue: Having some infrequent eye pain or eye strain isn’t usually a big problem. However, if you experience ongoing eye pain for more than a few days, or if you experience ongoing eye pain with eye movements, it’s important to get it checked out.

Squinting: Frequent squinting is the quintessential sign that it’s probably time for an eye exam. We squint when we’re having difficulties seeing because the act of squinting reduces extraneous light entering the eye and reduces light scattering, improving vision.

An Eye Infection: If you experience swelling of the eyelids, itchiness, redness, a pink discoloration of the whites of your eyes and/or discharge, you may have an eye infection.

Can Retinal Damage Be Repaired?

It’s possible to repair retinal damage. It can be caused by several factors, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetes, glaucoma, and injuries sustained from accidents or violence. There are some different treatment options available for retinal damage. Some treatments involve surgery, while others use medication or laser therapy. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used.

The most common surgical procedure for repairing retinal damage is called vitrectomy. This procedure involves removing the vitreous humor from the eye and replacing it with a saline solution. This helps to restore the eye’s shape and maintain its integrity. Another surgical procedure that can be used to repair retinal damage is called retinal detachment surgery. This procedure is used to reattach the retina to the back of the eye.

If surgery is not an option, you may be able to repair retinal damage with medication or laser therapy. For example, several medications are available that can help slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration. In addition, laser therapy can treat diabetic retinopathy and other eye conditions.

What Can You Expect During a Visit With a Retina Specialist?

When you visit a retina specialist, the first step will be to undergo a comprehensive eye exam. This exam will help the doctor determine the cause of your vision problems. The doctor may also order additional tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, to better understand your condition. If you are diagnosed with a retina problem, the doctor will develop a specific treatment plan. 

If you have a problem with your retina, it’s essential to seek treatment as soon as possible. There are many different treatments available for retina problems, and the sooner you start treatment, the better chance you have of preserving your vision. 

If you’re worried about your vision or think you may have a problem with your retina, don’t hesitate to contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced retinal specialists will diagnose and treat you if any damage is found.