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Function of the Retina

Eye Test — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:18:02 +0000

What is the Retina?

The retina is a layer that covers the back of the eye which contains cells called rods and cones which collect to light taken in by the eye and converts them in to images that is sent to the brain. The retina is important to your central vision as it contains the macula and also your peripheral sight (side vision).

The macula has a high amount cells and is important for detailed sight where as the peripheral retina is required to be able to move about safely although it has less cells in this area compared to the macula and therefore the level of detail is less in the peripheral field of vision.

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How is Retinal Detachment Caused?

Eye Test — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:17:06 +0000

The inside of the eye contains a gel called the vitreous which is a clear substance and allows light to pass through it, to the retina. When the retina develops a tear or a hole it allows the vitreous gel to seep behind the retina between it’s supporting tissue.

When this occurs the retina is weakened, increasingly causing more of the retina to become detached as the vitreous buids up behind the retina, if left undetected. In this condition the retinal is unable to convert the light that is entering the eye and creates a dim or blurred vision to which is sent to the brain.

Retinal Detachment

Eye Test — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:06:22 +0000

What is a Retinal Detachment?

In this condition the retinal tissue has started or has become detached from its support tissue that holds it place to the back of the eye. This happens when a hole, or tear has developed from either an injury or some ongoing eye problems.

It often only happens in one eye, however both eyes should be checked regularly to prevent any further problems especially in cases where a person has diabetes, where sometimes the risks are greater from retinal detachment.