In chapter 3 we begin learning about vision. One of topics in this chapter that I found interesting were retinal diseases. We learned about Macular Degeneration and Retinitis Pigmentosa, however, I went on to research a variety of other retinal diseases. Some other retinal diseases are: Retinal Detachment, Diabetic Retinopathy, and Retinoschisis. "Retinal detachment means the retina has separated from the back of the eye. Most retinas can be reattached with surgery. Without treatment, blindness may be the result" (Better Health Channel 1). "Diabetic retinopathy damages blood vessels inside the retina causing vision loss and blindness. People with diabetes are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms only emerge in the later stage and include blurred vision, eye strain and headaches. Regular eye exams and good diabetes management reduce the risk of diabetic retinopathy" (Better Health Channel 2). "Retinoschisis means the splitting of the retina into 2 layers. It is a disease affecting the nerve tissue in the eye" (Virtua Medical Center 1).
These are not even all of the diseases that can affect the retinas. I never knew that there were so many. It is frightening to see all of the different things that can affect your eyes and vision. Does anyone know someone who suffers from any of these retinal diseases? If so, how does it affect their every day life?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OiSYln6daSQ this is a link to a youtube video of a Dr. Phil episode about a woman who is blind due to retinal disease. She suffered from Retinitis Pigmentosa.
This part also interested me as well, especially because I have two family members with Macular Degeneration- it runs on both sides of my family. I have always wondered what it actually was and how one actually sees when they have this disease. I found it interesting that these diseases are caused by "functioning receptors are missing from one area of the retina" (Goldstein, 51). Reading this chapter has opened my eyes to understanding vision.
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