Medical Retina
The retina is a layer of tissue in the back of your eye that detects light and sends images to your brain. In the center of this nerve tissue is the macula. It provides the sharp, central vision needed for reading, driving and seeing fine detail. The macula makes up only a small part of the retina, yet it is much more sensitive to detail than the rest of the retina (called the peripheral retina). The macula is what allows you to thread a needle, read small print, and read street signs. The peripheral retina gives you side (or peripheral) vision. If someone is standing off to one side of your vision, your peripheral retina helps you know that person is there by allowing you to see their general shape.
How is the retina examined?
Your eye doctor will dilate your pupile during a comprehensive examination using a medicated eye drop. The doctor uses special magnifying lenses and lights to exam your retina. Additional testing of the retina is sometimes performed with either fundus photography equipment, OCT imaging (Optical Coherence Tomography) or Visual Field exams. The dilation will reverse after several hours.
Depending on the pathology or abnormality found, the doctor may prescribe medicated eye drops, medication therapy in the form of intraocular injections, or recommend surgery. It is important that you communicate your symptoms and history to assist in the examination.
