Retina and Macula

A common condition affecting the central part of the retina (the macula), usually in people over 50. It can lead to gradual loss of central vision.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Blurred or fuzzy central vision

• Difficulty reading or recognising faces

• Distorted vision (metamorphopsia - straight lines appearing wavy)

• Dark or empty areas in central vision

Treatment options:

• Regular monitoring and retinal scans

• Anti-VEGF injections for the “wet” form

• Nutritional supplements for selected patients

• Lifestyle changes (e.g. smoking cessation, diet)

• Possible injections for the “dry” form in some patients

A diabetes-related condition affecting the small blood vessels in the retina. Early stages may have no symptoms. With increasing disease severity there is often corresponding worsening of vision. DMO refers specifically to swelling at the macula.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Blurred or fluctuating vision

• Dark spots or floaters

• Difficulty seeing at night

• Sudden vision loss (in advanced cases)

Treatment options:

• Optimising blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol

• Regular eye examinations and imaging

• Laser treatment

• Injections to reduce swelling (DMO) or bleeding

• Surgery in advanced cases

A blockage of the veins draining blood from the retina, leading to swelling and bleeding.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Sudden blurred or reduced vision

• Vision loss in one eye

• Distorted central vision

Treatment options:

• Intravitreal injections to reduce swelling

• Laser treatment in selected cases

• Management of underlying conditions (e.g. blood pressure)

A blockage of the artery supplying blood to the retina. This is a medical emergency.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Sudden, painless loss of vision

• Severe reduction in vision in one eye

Treatment options:

• Urgent medical and ophthalmic assessment

• Investigation for underlying causes (e.g. cardiovascular risk factors)

• Ongoing monitoring and prevention of further events

A condition where fluid builds up under the retina, affecting central vision.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Blurred or dim central vision

• Distorted vision

• Objects appearing smaller or further away

• Reduced colour perception

Treatment options:

• Observation (many cases resolve spontaneously)

• Reducing risk factors (e.g. stress, steroid use)

• Laser or photodynamic therapy in persistent cases

• Trial of certain medications

A common age-related change where the vitreous gel separates from the retina.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Sudden onset of floaters

• Flashes of light

• Cobweb or curtain-like shadows (urgent if present)

Treatment options:

• Usually no treatment required

• Urgent examination to exclude retinal tears or a retinal detachment

• Monitoring for changes in symptoms

A retinal tear can progress to a retinal detachment, where the retina lifts away from the back of the eye. A retinal detachment is sight-threatening.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Sudden increase in floaters

• Flashes of light

• A shadow or curtain over vision

• Sudden decrease in vision

Treatment options:

• Laser or freezing treatment for retinal tears

• Urgent surgery for retinal detachment

• Ongoing follow-up to protect vision

A small gap in the macula that affects central vision.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Blurred or distorted central vision

• Straight lines appearing bent (metamorphopsia)

• Difficulty reading or seeing fine detail

Treatment options:

• Observation in some select cases is reasonable

• Vitrectomy surgery is usually required (often very successful)

A thin layer of scar tissue on the retina that can cause wrinkling.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Blurred vision

• Distorted or wavy vision

• Difficulty reading fine print

Treatment options:

• Monitoring if mild

• Vitrectomy surgery with membrane peel in more severe cases