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Retinal Detachment: Definition, Symptoms, and Treatment

December 1, 2018 by Anne Arundel Eye Center 1 Comment

A retinal detachment refers to a separation of the retina – the light-sensitive membrane in the back of the eye – from its supporting layers. This serious medical condition is typically caused by trauma, diabetes or an inflammatory disorder.

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment

• Flashes of light (Especially in peripheral vision)

• Blurred/blurry vision

• Floaters in the eye. Also referred to as shadows or spots

• Blindness in a portion of the visual field

The sudden and dramatic appearance of these symptoms is a strong indication that the retina is either tearing or detaching. If you feel you may be experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor immediately. Any sudden change in your vision is a serious medical condition that requires prompt medical attention from your optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Treatment of Retinal Detachment

Most cases of retinal detachment require one of the following surgeries.

• Freezing (cryopexy): The application of intense cold to the area with an ice probe to form a scar, which holds the retina in place.

• Laser Surgery (photocoagulation): This is used to seal the tears or holes in the retina.

• Pneumatic Retinopexy: The placing of a gas bubble in the eye to help the retina float back into place. Then a laser is used to fix the retina in place.

More extensive cases require more invasive procedures, including:

• Scleral Buckle: This is done to indent the wall of the eye, relieving the tugging of the vitreous on the retina.

• Vitrectomy: This is done to remove gel or scar tissue that may be pulling on the retina.

If you have any questions about what you have just read or if you would like to learn more about your various treatment options, please contact board certified ophthalmologist Samuel Boles and the eye care specialists at Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010.

Led by Dr. Boles, the Anne Arundel Eye Center offers comprehensive specialized ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care. Specializing in glaucoma and cataracts, Dr. Boles has helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision.

For more eye care advice and information, please take a look at our previous blog posts.

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Retinal Detachment

Cataract Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment

June 15, 2011 by Anne Arundel Eye Center 1 Comment

A cataract is clouding of the eye’s lens, which is located behind the iris and pupil. Cataracts, which are caused by protein buildup, usually only effects the elderly.

Cataracts are classified as one of three types:

• A subcapsular cataract begins at the back of the lens. People with diabetes, high farsightedness, retinitis pigmentosa, or those taking high doses of steroids, may develop a subcapsular cataract.

• A nuclear cataract is most commonly seen as it forms. This cataract forms in the nucleus, the center of the lens, and is due to natural aging changes.

• A cortical cataract forms in the lens cortex and gradually extends its spokes from the outside of the lens to the center. Many diabetics develop cortical cataracts.

This article from eHow.com provides a few helpful Ways to prevent cataracts:

1. Protect your eyes when out in bright sunlight. Wear sunglasses that block strong ultraviolet (UV) rays or a wide-brimmed hat that will shade your eyes from the sun.

2. Stop smoking. A strong link between smoking and the development of cataracts has been established. If you’re a smoker, smoking cessation will decrease your chances of getting a cataract.

3. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. The proper intake of some vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, has shown to help avoid getting a cataract. Try to get six servings of fruits and vegetables throughout the day.

4. Manage your diabetes, if you suffer from this disease. Diabetes can cause eye problems, including the development of cataracts. Keeping your diabetes under control can help you avoid getting a cataract if you are diabetic.

5. Get thorough eye examinations regularly. For those 60 years of age and over, a comprehensive eye exam should be conducted every year.

Of course, if you do find yourself with the symptoms of cataracts, make an appointment to see an optometrist as soon as possible.

Cataracts Symptoms:

• Blurry sight, and occasionally, double vision

• ‘Halos’ — the eyes become dazzled by bright light, making night driving difficult

• Colors may become faded

• Frequent changes in glasses prescriptions

Cataract development may be detected early and avoided. Anne Arundel Eye Center offers complete ophthalmic exams as well as diagnostic pre and post-surgical eye care. Specializing in glaucoma and cataracts, Dr. Boles has helped restore and preserve thousands of patients’ vision.

So if you think you may be at risk, schedule an eye appointment as soon as possible. If you have any questions, contact Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here today!

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Dr. Samuel Boles Honored by Chesapeake Family Reader

June 3, 2011 by Anne Arundel Eye Center Leave a Comment

In the upcoming July issue of the Chesapeake Family Reader, Dr. Samuel Boles, of Anne Arundel Eye Center, will be honored on the Reader’s Maryland Family Favorite Docs List 2011.

The Chesapeake Family List of over 600 of Maryland’s Family Favorite Doctors and Health Care Providers was compiled as a result of readers’ recommendations. The list will be released to the public in July.

Only those Maryland doctors and practitioners who have earned the trust, admiration and professional respect of parents are included. Listings cannot be bought. Each of these practitioners have been nominated by local parents during the months of February through April 2011. Practices include Chiropractors, Dentists, Orthodontists, Pediatricians, OB/Gyns, Midwives, Birthing Centers, Hospitals, Family Practice Doctors, Therapists, Opthalmologists, Optometrists, Laser Surgery and more covering central Maryland including Anne Arundel, Calvert, Howard, Prince George’s counties and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Chesapeake Family’s list of Favorite Health Care Providers serves as a vital resource to thousands of Maryland families. This single source, which lists personal recommendations to pediatric and family professionals, will provide guidance to Maryland families who might not otherwise know where to turn for their family’s health concerns.

So we would like to take the time to congratulate Dr. Boles on being named one of Maryland’s Family Favorite Doctors and Health Care Providers.

If you have any questions, contact Anne Arundel Eye Center by calling 410-224-2010 or click here today!