---
title: "Retina, vitreous and optic nerve conditions"
description: "Browse retina, macula and optic nerve conditions — from floaters and diabetic eye disease to retinal detachment — with answer-first explainers."
url: https://eyehealthguide.org/conditions/category/retina/
source: Eye Health Guide
licence: "General information only. Cite the URL and the named medical reviewer."
---

Condition library

# Retina, vitreous and optic nerve conditions

Conditions affecting the light-sensing retina, vitreous gel and optic nerve at the back of the eye.

Medical reviewer [Mr Mohamed Mohyudin](https://eyehealthguide.org/reviewers/mohamed-mohyudin/)· Last recorded site review July 6, 2026

### About this review

This page inherits the site’s previous review record. A separate, current article sign-off has not yet been recorded.

[How review works](https://eyehealthguide.org/reviewers/) · [Official biography & credentials](https://mohamedmohyudin.co.uk/author/mohamed-mohyudin/)

Quick answer

Retina and optic nerve conditions include floaters, diabetic eye disease, macular degeneration, retinal detachment and optic neuritis. New flashes, floaters or sudden vision loss are emergencies; many other retina problems need regular monitoring to protect central vision.

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## Frequently asked questions

### Which retina symptoms are emergencies?

A sudden shower of floaters, flashing lights, a curtain over vision, or sudden painless vision loss need same-day assessment to rule out retinal detachment or artery blockage.

### How often should people with diabetes have retina checks?

Most people with diabetes need periodic retinal screening even when vision feels normal, because diabetic retinopathy can progress silently until it threatens sight.

### What is the difference between dry and wet macular degeneration?

Dry AMD is more common and progresses slowly. Wet AMD can cause sudden central distortion or loss and often needs urgent treatment with injections or other specialist care.

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