What Do Retina Specialists Treat?
Retina Specialists and Their Role in Eye Health
Retina specialists focus on the delicate, light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. They diagnose and treat a wide range of problems to help preserve sight.
The retina captures light and converts it into signals that the brain turns into images. Damage to this tissue can lead to serious vision loss if not treated quickly.
Specialists use high-resolution imaging and testing equipment to detect issues early. Early detection allows for timely treatment and better outcomes.
Each patient’s needs are unique. Your retina specialist will create a care plan that may include medical therapy, laser treatment, or surgery based on your condition.
When to Consult a Retina Specialist
Regular exams are important if you have certain health risks or notice sudden changes in vision. Prompt care can prevent further damage.
People with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease should schedule routine visits to monitor retinal health.
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following:
- Sudden flashes or floaters
- A shadow or curtain across your vision
- Blurry or distorted central vision
- Unexpected eye pain, redness, or swelling
What to Expect During a Retinal Exam
A retinal exam is a thorough look at the back of the eye. It helps detect tears, detachments, macular changes, and diabetic damage.
The visit starts with questions about your general and eye health. This information guides the exam.
You will read letters on an eye chart to measure how clearly you see at different distances.
Eye drops may be used to widen the pupils. This gives the doctor a better view of the retina.
Your doctor may use several tools to view the retina:
- Direct ophthalmoscope for a detailed look
- Indirect ophthalmoscope for a three-dimensional view
- Slit-lamp microscope for magnified inspection
After the exam, the specialist reviews findings with you and answers any questions.
Imaging, such as optical coherence tomography, may be ordered for a closer look at retinal layers.
Retinal Diseases and Conditions
Many eye problems involve the retina. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preserving vision.
AMD affects central vision and is a leading cause of vision loss in adults over 50. Dry AMD progresses slowly, while wet AMD advances faster due to abnormal blood vessels. Treatments like anti-VEGF injections can help control wet AMD.
High blood sugar can damage retinal blood vessels, leading to leakage, swelling, or closure. Treatment options include laser therapy, anti-VEGF injections, and steroid implants, along with good blood sugar control.
A detachment occurs when the retina pulls away from its normal position, risking permanent vision loss. Symptoms include flashes, new floaters, and a curtain-like shadow. Treatment ranges from laser repair to surgery such as vitrectomy or scleral buckle.
A macular hole is a tiny break that blurs or distorts central vision. A macular pucker is scar tissue that wrinkles the macula, causing wavy vision. Observation or vitrectomy surgery may be recommended based on severity.
RVO happens when a vein is blocked by a clot, leading to sudden vision changes. It is linked to conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Treatments include anti-VEGF injections, steroid implants, and laser therapy.
Floaters are small spots drifting in vision. PVD occurs when the gel inside the eye separates from the retina. While often harmless, sudden increases in floaters or light flashes should be evaluated to rule out retinal tears.
Uveitis causes inflammation inside the eye, while endophthalmitis is a severe infection that can follow surgery or injury. These conditions require prompt treatment with medications to prevent vision loss.
Genetic conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa lead to gradual retinal cell loss, night blindness, and narrowed vision. Supportive care, low vision aids, and regular monitoring help patients maintain independence.
Diagnostic Techniques in Retinal Care
Specialized tests give detailed information about retinal structure and function.
This non-invasive scan provides high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina to detect problems like macular holes or diabetic edema.
A dye study highlights retinal blood vessels, helping identify leakage or abnormal growth seen in wet AMD or diabetic retinopathy.
This test uses sound waves to view the retina when bleeding or cloudiness prevents a clear view with standard tools.
This measures side vision and can reveal blind spots caused by retinal disease.
Partnering With Our Retina Specialists
Your vision is precious, and our retina specialists are dedicated to protecting it. With advanced diagnostics, personalized care plans, and a commitment to patient education, we are here to support you on every step of your eye health journey.
Everyone was kind and professional. I’ve been seeing Dr. Kleiner for 23 years. He is absolutely the best!
Bill Krause
Dr. Greene is the greatest doctor I know. His skills are unbelievable. His personality is the best I have ever seen. We love you Dr. Greene. You have earned 100 stars in our family!!
william snodgrass
Great first visit with Dr. Hugo Linares. Very patient, listened to our concerns, and understood. Each associate was attentive with a positive attitude. Truly appreciated their compassionate care.
Donna Lang
The office and staff ALWAYS treat you as important with superb courtesy and politeness and professionalism. Dr. Greene is very open when I just want to discuss my eye situation
Brenda Harris
Dr Linares is so kind and enthusiastic as I am making progress. I am so glad that my doctor sent him to me. Glad that he is not far from my home. Staff is also very nice. Would recommend this office!
Rebecca Rule