what is retina
The retina is a thin layer of tissue located at the back of the eye. Its main job is to capture light that enters the eye and convert it into signals. These signals are then sent to the brain through the optic nerve, allowing us to see images, best retina doctor in Kolkata. Think of the retina like the film in a camera, which helps create pictures. It’s made up of millions of light-sensitive cells, including rods and cones. Rods help us see in dim light, while cones allow us to see color and detail. When the retina is damaged, vision can become blurry, distorted, or lost entirely.
What You Need to Know about Retinal Detachment
The retina is a layer of light sensitive tissue which lines the inside of the back of your eye. While the details of eye anatomy and what goes on inside your eyes and brain when you look at an object might be hard to fully understand, the function of your retina is pretty simple. When you look at something, a red apple for example, light waves bounce off the surface of the apple and travel into your eye through the cornea (the clear covering over your eye) then through the pupil and lens before they strike the retina at the back of your eye, best retina doctor in Kolkata. The retina then converts the light waves into electrical impulses which then travel through your optic nerve to your brain where they are translated into an image of the apple. So you can easily see how a healthy retina is essential for clear vision.
When your retina becomes detached, this simply means the retinal tissue gets pulled away from the back of the eye, much like when you peel a boiled egg and the thin membrane covering the egg gets torn and pulled away from the surface as you peel the shell away.
What are The SYMPTOMS?
The retina can also become torn, and if left untreated, can lead to detachment. Symptoms of a tear in your retina are similar to detachment, especially an increase in floaters and light flashes, best retina doctor in Kolkata. Either way, these are both very serious eye conditions and need the attention of an eye care professional immediately. If left untreated, retinal detachment can lead to a permanent loss of vision. A retinal detachment is a medical emergency and if you experience any of the following symptoms you need to get to an eye care professional immediately:
- A sudden or gradual increase in light flashes and/or the number of floaters in your eye. Floaters are little specks or particles that you see floating about in your field of vision.
- The appearance of a ‘curtain’ over your field of vision
- A sudden decrease in your vision.
Types Of Common Retina Conditions
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition where the retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, separates from its normal position. This separation can lead to vision loss if not treated quickly. Symptoms often include sudden flashes of light, the appearance of floating spots, or a shadow in the vision. Retinal detachment can be caused by injury, age-related changes, or other eye diseases. It is important to seek medical help right away if you notice these symptoms, as prompt treatment can help save your vision, best retina doctor in Kolkata. Common treatments include laser surgery or other procedures to reattach the retina and restore normal vision.
Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic Retinopathy is an eye condition that affects people with diabetes. It occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, which is the part of the eye that senses light and sends signals to the brain. Over time, these damaged blood vessels can leak fluid or bleed, causing blurry vision or even vision loss, best retina doctor in Kolkata. In more severe cases, new, abnormal blood vessels can grow, further harming vision. Diabetic Retinopathy often doesn’t show symptoms in its early stages, so regular eye check-ups are important for people with diabetes. Managing blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol can help reduce the risk of developing this condition.
Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is an eye condition that affects a small part of the retina called the macula, which is responsible for central vision. It usually occurs in older adults, leading to blurred or lost vision in the center of what you see. While it doesn’t cause complete blindness, it can make activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces difficult. There are two types: dry AMD, which develops slowly over time, and wet AMD, which can cause rapid vision loss due to abnormal blood vessels growing under the retina. Early detection through regular eye exams can help manage the condition, though there’s no complete cure, best retina doctor in Kolkata. Treatments can slow its progression and preserve vision longer.
Retinal Vein Occlusion
Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) is a condition where the blood flow in the veins of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, gets blocked. This blockage can cause blood and fluid to leak into the retina, leading to swelling, blurry vision, or even sudden vision loss. RVO usually happens in one eye and is more common in older adults or those with conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol, best retina doctor in Kolkata. Treatment focuses on improving vision and managing the underlying health issues to prevent further damage.
Who Is At RISK?
Although a detached retina can happen at any age, it is most common in people over the age of 40. Men have detached retinas more than women and the condition is also more common in Whites than African, Americans. You are also more likely to experience a detached retina if you are extremely nearsighted, you have had a detached retina in your other eye or a family history of the condition, best retina doctor in Kolkata, you have had cataract surgery, an eye injury or suffer from various eye diseases.
How Is Retinal Detachment Treated?
Retinal detachments are treated with surgery which may require a hospital stay as the surgical treatment is more complicated. With timely and proper treatment, over 90 percent of retinal detachments can be successfully treated, although sometimes a second procedure is needed.
And even with the best of treatment, the final results in terms of how well you will be able to see may not be known for several months. Sometimes, even with many skilled attempts to repair the damage, the treatments just don’t work and vision may be lost. The best results happen when treatment occurs as soon after the tear or detachment as possible, best retina doctor in Kolkata. That is why it is so important for you, or anyone you know, who experiences symptoms, to get to an eye care professional as soon as possible.
FAQ
Your surgeon will give you specific aftercare instructions along with other restrictions after retina eye surgery. Make sure to follow these to ensure successful healing and recovery.
If your eye surgeon prescribed medications or eye drops, take them as recommended and do not discontinue using them unless directed by your surgeon.
Yes, resting your eyes is essential to promote healing. Avoid activities that strain the eyes, like reading, screen use, or any activity requiring intense focus, especially in the first few weeks.
No, avoid using electronic devices like phones, computers, and TVs immediately after surgery to reduce eye strain and aid in recovery.
No, avoid reading printed materials immediately after surgery, as it can strain the eyes and hinder recovery.
Retina surgery is generally safe, but as with any surgery, it carries some risks. The success rate is high, but complications like infection, bleeding, or retinal detachment can occur. Always consult with your surgeon for detailed safety information.
No, avoid getting water in your eyes for at least a week after surgery. This helps prevent infection and promotes healing. Use a gentle wipe or sponge to clean your face, keeping your eyes dry.
Yes, wearing UV-protective sunglasses is important after retina eye surgery to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and reduce glare.
It’s best to avoid wearing eye makeup for at least 1-2 weeks after retina eye surgery to prevent infection and irritation. Makeup particles can enter the eye or cause discomfort, so it’s safer to wait until your doctor clears you.
No, you should avoid sports and strenuous exercises for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery. Consult your doctor for specific guidance.
You will have a follow-up visit the day after your surgery. It is not uncommon to have another follow-up in about 3-4 weeks post-surgery, and another follow-up at 6 months. These appointments monitor the healing process to ensure it is proceeding correctly.
The cost of retina surgery in Kolkata can vary widely depending on the hospital and complexity of the procedure. Generally, it ranges from ₹40,000 to ₹1,50,000.
Yes, most patients can go home the same day after retina surgery, but you should arrange for someone to drive you and follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully.
No, you should not drive home after retina surgery. Arrange for someone to drive you, as your vision may be impaired and unsafe for driving.
After retina surgery, you may experience some blurriness, mild discomfort, and redness. It’s normal to feel these symptoms as the eye heals. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor recovery, and specific precautions should be taken to avoid straining the eye. Your vision will gradually improve over time with proper post-operative care.
Full recovery from retina eye surgery typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, but this can vary based on the individual’s condition and adherence to post-surgery care. Your doctor will provide a more specific timeline for your recovery.
It depends on your specific case. Glasses may be required after retina surgery, especially for tasks like reading or to correct any refractive changes. Your doctor will advise on the best options during follow-up visits.