At North County Laser Eye Associates, we urge our patients to undergo comprehensive eye exams at least every other year if their eyes are healthy, and at least once a year if they are at heightened risk of developing certain eye conditions such as glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy. First and foremost, routine eye exams are essential to maintaining good ocular health and staying ahead of potential problems. They also allow our eye care experts to identify and treat possible problems in their earliest stages, when they can most easily be rectified. Often, conditions that affect the eye do not manifest clear symptoms until they have done irreparable damage, which makes catching such problems before they have a chance to produce symptoms during comprehensive eye exams all the more important.
Among the most common eye problems we diagnose at North County Laser Eye Associates are retinal holes and tears. By diagnosing retinal holes and tears at our San Diego eye care center, we are able to provide effective treatment before they have the chance to result in retinal detachment.
If you haven’t had an eye exam in the past two years, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with the eye care experts of North County Laser Eye Associates today. It could end up being the most important appointment you make this year.
How do retinal holes and tears form?
Retinal holes and tears form when the vitreous gel that fills the inside of the eye pulls away from the retina. While the vitreous is generally able to separate from the retina without incident, it can sometimes cause a small break in the retinal tissue. This break is not necessarily a problem in and of itself; however, if enough fluid leaks through a hole or tear in the retina, it can cause the entire retina to detach from the back of the eye. If left untreated, this will eventually lead to serious and permanent vision loss or even complete blindness.
You may be at greater risk for the formation of retinal holes and tears if you:
- Are extremely nearsighted
- Have sustained an injury to one or both of your eyes
- Have undergone cataract surgery
- Have a family history of retinal problems
- Have certain diseases, such as diabetes or sickle cell disease
How are retinal holes and tears treated?
Fortunately, retinal holes and tears can be treated effectively with either laser therapy or cryotherapy (freezing). At North County Laser Eye Associates, we use laser therapy to seal the holes and tears so that they do not become larger and fluid is not allowed to pass through and get underneath the retina. This laser treatment has an excellent success rate, and in the vast majority of cases will prevent retinal detachment.
Learn More about Retinal Holes and Tears
If you would like to learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of retinal holes and tears, or you would like to schedule your comprehensive eye exam, please contact North County Laser Eye Associates today.
