The Elevate Experience
A thin layer that does the heavy lifting.
The retina is a thin layer of nervous tissue that lines the inside of the eyeball. Images are formed on this layer (not unlike images formed on a movie screen) and converted to electric signals within individual nerve cells. These nerve cells are eventually bundled up as the optic nerves, which in turn, travel to the brain. The space within the eyeball is filled with a jelly like substance, called the “vitreous.”
Diseases within this area of the eye are numerous and varied and even a cursory discussion is beyond the scope of this writing, but it helps to review some common problems. Many such diseases start primarily within the vitreous/retina. In addition, diseases affecting the body in general such as diabetes and high blood pressure can have an impact on the retina/vitreous.
Floaters and flashes.
A common concern for which we routinely see many patients at Access Eye is the onset of floaters and sometimes flashes of light. Any object within the vitreous cavity that moves can cast a shadow on the retina, which is construed as a “floater.” Depending on the size of the object and the distance from the retina, floaters can have vastly different presentations. The accompanying flashes of light are often an indication that the vitreous jelly is tugging on the retina. It is of paramount importance that each case of floaters or light flashes be evaluated at its onset to rule out, for example, a tear in the Retina that can lead to a Retinal Detachment if untreated, or alternatively, a hemorrhage within the vitreous cavity that can have other causes.
Laser floater treatment, without surgery.
If floaters are interfering with your daily vision, ELLEX laser vitreolysis is a minimally invasive, in-office treatment offered at Access Eye.
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