Do you see specks of what looks like dust floating before your eyes? Or perhaps you’ve noticed a dark area in your peripheral view. Maybe you even see halos near or around light sources, such as bulbs and lamps.
Those are all indications you have a diseased or damaged retina, which, if not treated ASAP, can lead to vision loss.
That’s why you should know how to tell if you have a healthy retina vs. an unhealthy one. And luckily, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ll explain the characteristics of a healthy retina and the signs of retinal disease, so read on.
Healthy Retina vs. an Unhealthy One: Signs and Characteristics
A healthy retina lets you see things directly in front of you and the areas at the edges of your visual field. The latter is what you call the peripheral view.
A healthy retina also has properly working cones. Cones are cells that help your eyes (and brain) process colors. So, if you have no problem determining colors, your retina is likely functioning well.
Your retina also allows you to see in dim light and at night.
On the other hand, an unhealthy retina can result in altered or impaired vision.
For example, you may see floaters (the “specks” mentioned above) if you have retinal damage, like a torn or detached retina. This may happen alongside a blurred or dim central or peripheral vision. If you experience these together, please see an eye specialist ASAP, as it can be a medical emergency.
Seeing distracting halos around lights and changes in low-light or night vision can also indicate retinal issues. These include macular degeneration, rod dystrophies, and cone disorders. They’re not curable, but treatment is available to help slow or stop their progression.
How to Detect Retinal Problems
The best way to determine if you have a healthy or an unhealthy retina is to go for regular eye checkups. A good enough reason is that not all retinal problems exhibit symptoms right away.
The CDC recommends that children and people with diabetes get yearly eye exams. Do the same if you have a family history of genetic eye problems, such as retinal dystrophies. You should also visit an eye doctor ASAP if you experience any sudden and drastic change in your vision.
One type of screening test that can help detect retinal issues is the iWellness Exam. It takes only seconds to perform, but it lets eye doctors check for signs of retinal diseases. It can reveal problems like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.
Protect Your Vision From Retinal Problems
Knowing whether you have a healthy retina vs. an unhealthy one is vital in protecting your vision. So, if you experience symptoms like increased floaters or loss of peripheral vision, please see an eye doctor ASAP. The sooner they can diagnose the issue, the sooner they can address it and help you retain your sight.
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