Overview
Retinal diseases encompass a wide range of disorders that affect the retina, the thin layer of tissue lining the back of the eye responsible for converting light into neural signals for vision. These diseases can impair vision and sometimes lead to blindness if untreated. Korea offers advanced diagnostic tools and cutting-edge treatments, making it a leading destination for managing retinal conditions effectively.
What is Retinal Diseases?
Retinal diseases refer to any conditions that damage the retina’s structure or function. This includes diseases like diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and retinal vein occlusion, among others. Each condition has unique causes and symptoms but generally affects vision by disrupting the retina’s ability to process images.
Symptoms
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Sudden or gradual vision loss
- Appearance of floaters or dark spots
- Flashes of light in vision
- Shadows or curtains blocking part of the visual field
- Difficulty seeing in low light or at night
Causes
- Aging and genetic factors
- Diabetes and related vascular damage
- High blood pressure
- Eye trauma or injury
- Infections or inflammation
- Vascular blockages or hemorrhages
- Prematurity (in infants)
Risk Factors
- Diabetes mellitus
- Hypertension
- Family history of retinal diseases
- Smoking
- Obesity and poor diet
- Prolonged exposure to UV light without protection
- Aging
Complications
- Partial or complete vision loss
- Retinal detachment
- Macular edema (swelling of the central retina)
- Neovascularization (abnormal blood vessel growth) leading to bleeding or scarring
- Glaucoma secondary to retinal disease
- Chronic eye pain or discomfort
Prevention
- Regular eye examinations, especially for at-risk individuals
- Strict control of blood sugar and blood pressure
- Protective eyewear to avoid trauma and UV damage
- Healthy lifestyle including balanced diet and no smoking
- Early treatment of any eye symptoms or diseases
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and expert retinal specialists offering comprehensive treatment options for retinal diseases:
- Diagnostic Imaging: Optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography, and fundus photography for precise evaluation.
- Medical Management: Controlling systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension that affect the retina.
- Laser Therapy: To seal leaking vessels, prevent neovascularization, or repair retinal tears.
- Intravitreal Injections: Anti-VEGF agents and steroids to reduce swelling and prevent abnormal blood vessel growth.
- Surgical Treatments: Vitrectomy and retinal detachment repair surgeries performed using minimally invasive microsurgical techniques.
- Rehabilitation: Vision aids and support for patients with permanent vision loss.
