Why Retinal Disease Can Go Undiagnosed for Years
As we age, so does our vision. Some people who never needed glasses before may find that they now require them for reading. Others might notice occasional flashes and floaters or have difficulty adjusting to lower lighting. These changes are normal and usually not a cause for concern. However, many diseases affecting the retina often don't show symptoms right away, and when they do, they’re mild. As a result, serious retinal conditions can go undetected for many years, potentially leading to significant vision problems later on.
Early Symptoms of Retinal Disease
The retina is a thin layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye. It contains millions of light-sensitive cells that receive and organize visual information. The retina sends this information to the brain through the optic nerve, enabling you to see. In many cases, the earliest stages of retinal conditions present no noticeable symptoms and can only be detected and diagnosed through a comprehensive diagnostic eye exam.
Conditions affecting the retina, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy, can go undiagnosed for years. By the time you notice any symptoms, permanent and sometimes irreversible damage may have already occurred. It’s crucial to monitor your retinal health and be aware of the early signs of vision loss, including:
- More or larger floaters than normal
- Double or distorted vision
- Clouded or darkened vision
- Changes in peripheral vision
Generally, if you notice any sudden changes or an increase in symptoms over a short period of time, you should see a retina specialist as soon as possible.
The Importance of Regular Retinal Exams
A retina specialist can spot damage to your retina during an exam, often before you notice any visual symptoms. During the exam, the specialist will use special eye drops to dilate your pupils and take high-resolution digital images of the inside of your eye, allowing them to see the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels in detail.
The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends comprehensive eye exams for healthy adults aged 18 to 64 every two years and annually for those 65 and older. If you have diabetes, a family history of retinal disease, or other risk factors, you may require more routine eye exams. The earlier a retina specialist identifies retinal abnormalities and starts treatment, the better your vision outcomes will be.
Take Steps to Prevent Undiagnosed Retinal Disease
In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to put eye exams on the back burner, especially if your vision seems perfectly fine. However, retinal disease can go undiagnosed for years, potentially leading to irreversible vision loss down the road.
At the Retina Group of Florida, our retina specialists are trained and highly experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of retinal diseases. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment at one of our conveniently located clinics in Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Clearwater, Port St. Lucie, Sarasota, Naples, and surrounding areas.
