• What is the function of the retina?
• What is the vitreous?
• What is the macula?
• How do I know if I have macular degeneration
• Is there a cure for macular degeneration?
• What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?
• Can a detached retina be repaired?
• What causes eye floaters?
• Besides treatment for retina conditions, what else does St. Luke’s offer?

Retina Care Near Tampa and Orlando, Florida – Questions Answered by Our Eye Doctors

What is the function of the retina?

The retina is a thin layer of tissue that acts much like film in a camera. It captures light rays and sends them to the brain for processing.

What is the vitreous?

The vitreous is a gel-like substance that fills the center of the eye. It makes up about two-thirds of the eye’s volume.

What is the macula?

The macula is a specialized area of the retina that enables us to see details in the center of our vision. It allows us to recognize faces, read, and watch TV.

How do I know if I have macular degeneration?

Many patients with macular degeneration experience a loss of central vision, have difficulty reading or seeing detail, or experience distorted vision. Since the aging process can cause macular degeneration, it is important that people over 50 obtain routine exams from eye doctors to test for this condition.

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Is there a cure for macular degeneration?

Unfortunately, there is not yet a cure for this condition. However, patients with wet age related macular degeneration can receive a relatively new drug treatment called MACUGEN® at our practice near Tampa and Orlando, Florida. If you undergo this therapy, our eye doctors will inject medication into your eye every six weeks to slow vision loss and possibly restore some lost vision. Other treatment options for macular degeneration include laser photocoagulation, photodynamic therapy, and vitamin supplements.

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What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?

Some common signs of this condition are blurred vision, floaters and flashes, and sudden vision loss. However, diabetic retinopathy can cause various other eye symptoms as well. If you are diabetic and are experiencing any type of eye problem, you should visit an eye doctor right away.

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Can a detached retina be repaired?

Yes, there are various methods for treating retinal detachment. However, it is crucial to obtain treatment immediately after experiencing symptoms of this problem. Failing to do so could result in major vision problems or blindness.

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What causes eye floaters?

Eye floaters occur when tiny bits of vitreous gel or cells cast shadows on the retina. The floaters are usually a result of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), a common condition that occurs when the vitreous separates from the back of the eye. PVD is often a result of the aging process and is usually harmless.

Sometimes, eye floaters can be a sign of a serious problem such as a retinal tear, retinal detachment, hemorrhage, or eye injury. If you are experiencing floaters, contact our practice near Tampa and Orlando, Florida to meet with one of our eye doctors.

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Besides treatment for retina conditions, what else does St. Luke’s offer?

St. Luke’s offers a number of services including cataract surgery, refractive surgery, cornea treatments, glaucoma treatment, cosmetic surgery, and skin care.

If you have additional questions, contact our Tampa Bay area practice to set up an appointment with one of our eye doctors.

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