What to Expect from Retinal Injection Treatments
Retinal injections are frequently used to treat a range of eye conditions, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion. These injections not only help to stabilize an eye condition, but they may also be able to improve vision outcomes. Therefore, if you have a retinal condition or are at risk for one, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a retina specialist to see if intravitreal injections are the best treatment option for you.
How Intravitreal Injections Treat Retinal Conditions
Eye injections enable retina specialists to deliver medication directly into the eye. Conditions such as macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy lead the body to produce an excessive amount of a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This overproduction can cause the blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eyeball) to leak, resulting in swelling and vision issues.
Retina specialists may inject anti-VEGF drugs into the eye to block VEGF and improve vision. Additionally, steroid and antibiotic injections may also be used. Most individuals receiving anti-VEGF therapy initially require it once a month. With time, the frequency of injections may decrease. While some people may eventually stop needing these injections, others must continue them to protect their vision.
The Retinal Injection Process
The injection process is relatively straightforward and takes place at your retina center in a designated treatment room. You’ll sit in a reclining chair, and your doctor will administer eye drops to dilate your pupils. Then, they’ll clean around your eye with an antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of infection. The retina specialist will drape a plastic curtain over your eye to hold back your eyelashes, and they’ll use a speculum to prevent you from blinking during the procedure. Then, they’ll administer numbing eye drops.
Some patients describe experiencing a scratching sensation or slight pressure during the injection, but it's rarely painful. The entire process usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. After the injection, your doctor will clean your eye to remove the antiseptic and will also check to ensure there are no complications. Since your eyes will be dilated, you should arrange for someone to pick you up after your appointment.
Common Side Effects and Patient Concerns
The idea of a needle coming close to the eye can be quite intimidating. It’s normal to feel anxious about this procedure. However, retinal injection treatment is quick, and most patients report minimal discomfort. Additionally, eye injections are considered safe, and complications are rare. Common side effects include:
- Minor eye irritation
- A spot of blood in the eye
- Blurred vision
- Eye redness
- Floaters in the field of vision
These side effects are normal and typically resolve on their own. You should see your retina specialist immediately if you experience prolonged pain, a dark shadow in your vision, or pus and discharge from the eye.
Schedule an Appointment With a Retina Specialist Today
Retinal injections are a safe and effective treatment that helps patients preserve and maintain their vision. The earlier an individual begins retinal injection treatment, the better their vision outcomes will be. At Palmetto Retina Center, our retina specialists can effectively diagnose and treat retinal conditions in patients throughout South Carolina, including Columbia, Orangeburg, Sumter, Florence, and Aiken. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.