Diagnosis and treatment of retinal diseases

Early detection to preserve vision

The retina is a highly sensitive tissue responsible for visual perception. Retinal diseases can impair central vision and, if left untreated, may lead to progressive vision loss.

Many retinal conditions cause no symptoms in their early stages. Early diagnosis is therefore crucial to prevent permanent damage. At Augenpraxis Odeon, we offer state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques and individual treatment strategies to preserve your vision as effectively as possible.

Common retinal diseases and their treatment

What is AMD?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the macula – the central area of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It is one of the most common causes of vision loss in older age.

Symptoms:

  • Blurred or distorted vision (metamorphopsia): a simple self-test using the Amsler grid can help detect early changes in visual quality.
  • Reduced visual acuity, particularly when reading
  • Central visual field defects

Treatment options:

  • Dry AMD: regular monitoring, nutritional optimisation, specific dietary supplements
  • Wet AMD: intravitreal injections (IVT) with anti-VEGF medication to stabilise disease progression

What is diabetic retinopathy?

A complication of diabetes in which damage occurs to the small blood vessels of the retina. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness.

Symptoms:

  • Often asymptomatic at first, later blurred vision
  • Visual disturbances caused by bleeding into the vitreous
  • Sudden vision loss, for example due to vitreous haemorrhage or retinal detachment

Treatment:

What are retinal vascular occlusions?

Circulatory disorders of the retinal vessels, comparable to a stroke in the eye. They may cause sudden vision loss or visual field defects.

Symptoms:

  • Sudden deterioration of vision or visual field loss
  • Blurred or distorted vision
  • Often associated with high blood pressure or diabetes

Treatment:

  • Intravitreal injections to reduce macular swelling, aiming to improve or preserve vision
  • Laser therapy to treat abnormal new blood vessel formation
  • Monitoring and optimisation of underlying risk factors

Emergency: retinal detachment

Retinal detachment is an ophthalmic emergency that can lead to blindness if not treated promptly.

Warning signs:

  • Flashes of light or a “shower of black spots” in the field of vision
  • A dark shadow spreading from one side
  • Sudden, painless loss of vision

Immediate treatment is required!

Depending on severity, the following treatments may be considered:

  • Laser treatment: sealing of small retinal tears
  • Vitrectomy or scleral buckle surgery: surgical procedures to reattach the retina

Important: If retinal detachment is suspected, seek immediate ophthalmic care.

Modern diagnostics – precise and gentle

Timely diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment. At Augenpraxis Odeon, we use advanced diagnostic techniques for retinal evaluation:

  • Optical coherence tomography (OCT): high-resolution imaging of retinal layers
  • Fluorescein angiography (FA): visualisation of retinal blood flow
  • Indocyanine green angiography (ICG): assessment of deeper vascular layers
  • Ultrasound examination: detection of vitreous haemorrhage or retinal detachment
  • Visual field testing (perimetry): evaluation of central and peripheral visual function

Thanks to these precise diagnostic tools, retinal diseases can be detected early and treated effectively.

Individual therapy – tailored to your eye health

Our treatment options range from medical therapies to surgical procedures. Together with you, we develop an individual treatment plan based on your findings and personal needs.

Intravitreal injections are a proven and effective treatment for various retinal diseases such as AMD, diabetic retinopathy and retinal vascular occlusions.

  • Quick and minimally painful: the injection is performed under sterile conditions directly into the vitreous body
  • Targeted therapy: medications such as anti-VEGF agents reduce fluid accumulation and abnormal vessel growth
  • Regular treatment: intervals vary depending on the condition and individual response

Further treatment options:

  • Laser therapy : stabilisation of retinal diseases, treatment of retinal tears or abnormal vessel growth
  • Retinal surgery: surgical intervention for retinal detachment or severe vitreoretinal disorders

With these modern treatment approaches, disease progression can often be halted and vision preserved.

Why Augenpraxis Odeon?

Frequently asked questions

Many retinal diseases begin without symptoms. However, symptoms such as distorted vision, visual field defects or flashes of light should be evaluated immediately.

Many retinal diseases cannot be completely cured. However, modern treatments can stabilise the condition and slow progression. Early diagnosis is crucial to preserve vision for as long as possible.

Regular retinal examinations are particularly important for people with diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of retinal disease. Your ophthalmologist will advise you individually on the appropriate interval.

Depending on the condition, treatment options include intravitreal injections, laser therapy or surgical procedures. We will advise you individually on the most suitable treatment for your situation.