Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to common concerns about retinal health and treatments.
1. When should I see a retina specialist? +
You should consult a retina specialist if you notice sudden vision loss, flashes of light, increasing floaters, blurred vision, eye pain, or a dark shadow in your vision. Early treatment can prevent permanent damage.
2. Is retina surgery safe? +
Yes. Modern retina surgeries are safe and highly effective when performed by an experienced specialist using advanced technology. Most procedures are done under local anesthesia and are well tolerated.
3. What are floaters and flashes? Are they dangerous? +
Floaters appear as small black spots, and flashes look like brief sparks of light. While they are often harmless, a sudden increase may indicate retinal detachment and requires immediate examination.
4. Does retina treatment hurt? +
Most retina treatments, including injections and laser procedures, cause minimal discomfort. Local anesthesia is used to keep patients comfortable during procedures.
5. How long does it take to recover after retina surgery? +
Recovery time depends on the type of surgery and individual healing. Most patients recover within a few weeks to months. Your doctor will guide you on activity restrictions and follow-ups.
6. Can vision be restored after retinal problems? +
Vision improvement depends on the condition, severity, and how early treatment begins. Early diagnosis gives the best chance for good visual recovery.
7. Are eye injections safe? How often are they needed? +
Intravitreal injections are safe when given by trained specialists. The number of injections varies depending on the disease and response to treatment. Your doctor will decide the schedule.
8. How often should diabetic patients get their eyes checked? +
Patients with diabetes should have a retina examination at least once every year. If diabetic retinopathy is present, more frequent visits may be needed.
9. What is an OCT scan, and why is it important? +
An OCT scan is a painless imaging test that shows detailed layers of the retina. It helps diagnose diseases early and monitor treatment progress.
10. Is retinal detachment an emergency? +
Yes. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency. Immediate treatment is required to save vision. If you notice a curtain-like shadow or sudden vision loss, seek help at once.
11. Can children develop retina problems? +
Yes. Premature babies and some children can develop retinal diseases. Early screening and timely treatment are essential to prevent vision loss.
12. Do I need lifelong follow-up for retina diseases? +
Some retinal conditions require long-term monitoring. Regular follow-ups help detect changes early and prevent complications.
13. Is laser treatment for the retina permanent? +
Laser treatment helps control the disease and prevent further damage, but regular monitoring is still needed. Some conditions may require additional treatment later.
14. Will wearing glasses cure retinal problems? +
No. Glasses improve refractive errors but do not treat retinal diseases. Specialized medical or surgical treatment is required for retinal conditions.
15. How can I protect my eyes from future problems? +
You can protect your eyes by controlling diabetes and blood pressure, eating healthy food, avoiding smoking, wearing sunglasses, limiting screen time, and having regular eye check-ups.