Early Signs of Retinal Disease
When it comes to your vision, prepare yourself for changes. You may need glasses after having perfect vision your whole life, or you may experience visual impairment out of the blue. These changes in vision health are common and almost inevitable, especially as we age.
Often, eye problems are left unchecked because their symptoms are not noticed right away. This is especially true of conditions that affect the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of your eye and makes vision possible. In many cases, the earliest stages of retinal conditions cause no noticeable symptoms and can only be observed and diagnosed through a comprehensive diagnostic eye exam.
There are many kinds of retinal diseases that may develop throughout our lives, some of which can happen at any age. Unfortunately, some of these conditions can impair vision permanently and even lead to blindness if action is not taken. If you feel any sudden changes or increase in symptoms over a short period of time, you should get in contact with a doctor as soon as possible. It’s normal for our vision to change over time, but staying ahead of potential retinal conditions can save you time, money, and possibly your eyesight. Here are some early warning signs that it’s time to see an eye doctor.
Eye Floaters
Small flecks and shapes in your sightline, also known as floaters, are a small collection of cells in the jelly-like fluid that fills the inside of your eye (i.e. the vitreous humor). Floaters also appear in your vision as dots or squiggly lines and often accompany light flashes. Most people will experience them at some point in their life.
Although almost everyone sees floaters from time to time, if you notice more or larger floaters in your vision, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency. Consult with a doctor as soon as you can – if left untreated, it could cause partial blindness.
Double or Distorted Vision
Double vision is when duplicate images or vague distinctions between objects occur in your vision. Two separate images can overlap and appear moving, which can make it difficult to decipher the real image from the distortion. Another common distortion that people can experience is straight lines appearing curved, wavy, or broken. These are signs that something is potentially wrong with the retina.
Clouded or Darkened Vision
If your vision is looking clouded or “muddy,” this could be an early sign of retina problems. This type of visual distortion feels like someone has dimmed the lights in the room, or you are wearing sunglasses everywhere you go.
Changes in Peripheral Vision
Because our eyes are positioned facing forward, human peripheral vision is fairly limited. It’s not necessarily unusual for some people to have blind spots in their peripheral vision. However, if you notice that your normal blind spot is larger than normal or if it feels like something is blocking your peripheral vision, you should contact an eye doctor as soon as possible.
Take Control of Your Vision Today
From macular degeneration to retinal tears, there are a number of things your vision may be trying to tell you. Early symptoms can often go unnoticed, so be sure to pay extra close attention to your eyes as you get older, or if you experience anything out of the ordinary. Our experts at Palmetto Retina Center are happy to walk through preventative measures, treatment, and any other step of your visual health. Contact us today with any questions!