This is the thin delicate photographic film of the eye that covers the inside of the eye. It provides both peripheral vision and central detailed vision. The finest vision is achieved at the very centre of the retina, known as the macula.
Problems with the retina present with distortion, blur or shadows. Torn or detached retinas are a surgical emergency. A torn retina may cause a ‘shower’ of floaters (retinal tear), a curtain-like shadow (retinal detachment), or loss of vision (totally detached retina). Age related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and maculopathy are the commonest causes of blindness in the UK. Blocked retinal veins cause retinal haemorrhages and swelling that need treatment to prevent permanent loss of vision.
Age-Related Changes (Drusen & Macular Degeneration)
Diabetic Retinopathy, Maculopathy
Retinal Hole, Tear, Detachment
Retinal Haemorrhage (Blocked vein)