The 3 Most Common Retina Problems You Should Know About

Posted on: October 15, 2025

Your retina plays one of the most vital roles in your vision. This thin layer of light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye captures images and sends signals to your brain, allowing you to see clearly. When the retina becomes damaged or diseased, it can lead to permanent vision loss—often without warning. 

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), many retinal diseases develop silently in their early stages, which makes routine retina exams critical for early detection and timely management. In this blog, we’ll explore the three most common retina problems and explain how a comprehensive retina eye exam can help safeguard your sight. 

1. Diabetic Retinopathy 

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when long-term high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina. Over time, these vessels can leak fluid or blood, leading to vision changes or even blindness. According to the AAO, diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of preventable vision loss among working-age adults. 

The early stages of diabetic retinopathy often show no visible symptoms. Only a dilated retina exam can detect these early changes before vision is affected. During this exam, advanced imaging tools like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fundus photography allow your doctor to see even the smallest blood vessel changes in the retina. 

Detecting these issues early through regular eye exams allows for timely treatment—helping to preserve vision and prevent further damage. 

2. Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) 

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) affects the macula, the central portion of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It’s a major cause of vision loss among adults over 60, and comes in two forms: 

• Dry AMD, which progresses slowly as the macula thins over time. 
• Wet AMD, which can cause sudden vision loss due to abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina. 

The AAO recommends regular retina exams for adults over 50—especially those with risk factors such as smoking, family history of AMD, or prolonged sun exposure. 

A comprehensive retina exam can reveal the earliest signs of drusen (small yellow deposits) or subtle macular changes long before vision loss occurs. Catching AMD early allows your eye doctor to monitor progression and guide lifestyle or nutritional choices that help slow its development. 

3. Retinal Tear or Retinal Detachment 

A retinal tear occurs when the retina pulls away or develops a small break, often due to changes in the vitreous (the gel-like fluid inside the eye). If fluid seeps beneath the tear, it can lead to retinal detachment—a medical emergency that can cause permanent vision loss if not treated quickly. 

Common warning signs include: 

• Flashes of light or new floaters 
• A dark shadow or “curtain” across your vision 
• Sudden blurry or distorted vision 
• Why a retina exam matters 

Because retinal tears can occur suddenly and without pain, a prompt retina exam is the only way to confirm the diagnosis and prevent detachment. During your visit, a dilated retinal evaluation and advanced imaging can identify any weak spots or small tears before they worsen. 

According to the AAO, seeking an eye exam immediately after noticing sudden flashes or floaters dramatically improves the chances of saving your vision. 

Why Regular Retina Exams Are So Important 

A retina exam is more than just a vision check—it’s a window into your eye health. Regular exams can: 

• Detect early signs of disease before symptoms appear 
• Prevent severe vision loss through early intervention 
• Monitor changes over time for at-risk individuals (especially those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease) 
• Provide peace of mind that your most important sense—your sight—is being carefully protected 

As the AAO states, “Many eye diseases are silent until vision loss is significant. Regular eye exams are the best defense against preventable blindness.” 

Protect Your Vision Today 

Your retina health is too important to ignore. Whether you have diabetes, are over 50, or simply want to protect your vision, scheduling a retina eye exam can make all the difference. 

Schedule your retina eye exam today at Desert Retina Consultants and take the first step toward lasting, healthy vision. Call (760) 340-2394 to book your retina appointment today.