Many parts of our body degenerate over time. This occurs from aging or happens from certain medical conditions. Degeneration is defined as irreversible deterioration and loss of function. Our eyes and retina are no different. Are degenerative retinal conditions common? Let’s look at a few of these conditions.
Retinal Conditions That Cause Degeneration
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
This condition starts at approximately age 50 and it becomes progressively worse. The central part of the retina called the macula deteriorates causing vision loss over time. You will experience blurred vision or a blind spot in the center of your visual field.
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)
RP is an inherited degenerative retinal condition, and is associated with a group of genetic disorders that cause a breakdown of cells in the retina. It changes the way the retina responds to light.
The most noticeable signs of Retinitis Pigmentosa include loss of night vision, loss of peripheral vision, loss of central vision, and trouble perceiving color.
Diabetic Retinopathy
When diabetes is left untreated or is poorly managed, it harms the blood vessels throughout the body. This includes those in the back of the eye. When glucose levels in the blood are too high, it damages these blood vessels causing leakage of fluid and blood into the retina.
The result includes the following:
- Macular edema or swelling
- Neovascularization or the growth of abnormal cells
- Cell death
When severe, this condition can lead to total vision loss.
Macular Hole
The macula can sometimes break or tear leading to a hole. Aging causes a condition known as posterior vitreous deterioration (PVD) and this is the main cause of a hole. The fluid filling your eye known as the vitreous begins to shrink and pull away causing the hole.
Pay Attention
Pay close attention to any changes in your vision that could be a degenerative retinal condition no matter how small, and schedule regular eye exams.
Schedule an eye exam with Retina Specialists of Tampa in Wesley Chapel, Tampa and Lakeland, FL if you have any changes in your vision, especially if you have other conditions like diabetes.
