Signs, Symptoms and Treatment of Epiretinal Membranes

If you notice that your vision becomes distorted or that straight lines look wavy, you may have one of numerous retinal eye conditions. Our eye doctors in Grand Junction can run the necessary tests to determine whether you have epiretinal membranes. We’ll also help you determine whether to undergo surgery to repair it. Learn more about this condition, its causes and treatments.

What Are Epiretinal Membranes?

First, it’s important to understand how the retina works. Located at the back of the eye, the retina is made of delicate cells that collect light and send it to the brain, which turns it into images. Epiretinal membranes affect this area of the eye, forming scar tissue that resembles foggy cellophane. Sometimes, this condition develops on the macula and impacts your vision.

If you notice signs that you may have epiretinal membranes, it’s important to let us know as soon as possible. Keep reading to learn the signs of epiretinal membranes.

Signs of Epiretinal Membranes

The following signs may indicate that you have epiretinal membranes:

• Straight lines appear wavy
• Double vision
• Blurry vision
• Reduction in central vision
• Loss of central vision

Make an appointment with our certified eye doctors in Grand Junction to report these symptoms. If your symptoms worsen, let us know right away. Remember that you can fill out the paperwork at home to save time and hassle in the office.

Causes of Epiretinal Membranes

Are you wondering what causes epiretinal membranes? This condition may develop slowly due to changes in the eye’s vitreous gel and may form without you noticing. If the retina detaches, it may cause epiretinal membrane formation. Other underlying causes include retinal tears and uveitis (eye inflammation).

Let our eye specialists monitor your epiretinal membranes to determine whether they worsen. At the end of the day, we may suggest surgery to repair the damage.

Treatment Options for Epiretinal Membranes

Although medical technology continues to advance, there are currently no non-surgical solutions to treat epiretinal membranes. Eye drops and medication won’t reverse the damage or prevent it from advancing.

Fortunately, there is a procedure called vitrectomy that eye doctors use to treat epiretinal membranes. During the procedure, the surgeon makes incisions in the white part of your eye. Then, the surgeon uses small instruments to remove the vitreous gel. The membrane is then carefully peeled away.

Our eye doctors in Grand Junction will do everything they can to prepare you for the potential outcomes of the surgery. The amount of improvement possible varies depending on the severity of the damage when you get surgery. Therefore, you may wish to move forward with the surgery sooner rather than later.

For the best surgical results, contact us today to properly diagnose epiretinal membranes.

Why Choose Grand Junction ICON Eyecare?

For the top eye doctors in Grand Junction, come to Grand Junction ICON Eyecare. Although we specialize in cataract and LASIK surgery in Grand Junction, we are also a full-service eyecare provider. From retinal eye conditions to glaucoma to cataracts, our team can handle the vision needs of your entire family.