There is a thin layer covering most of the inside of the back of your eye called the retina. Because the retina receives light, encodes it, and transmits it to the brain, problems with the retina’s function can interfere with vision. There are many different diseases and conditions that can affect the retina, some of which present an emergency situation requiring prompt treatment from a qualified retina specialist. We don’t have retina specialists.
There is a thin layer covering most of the inside of the back of your eye called the retina. Because the retina receives light, encodes it, and transmits it to the brain, problems with the retina’s function can interfere with vision. There are many different diseases and conditions that can affect the retina, some of which present an emergency situation requiring prompt treatment from a qualified retina specialist. We don’t have retina specialists.
Starting October 1, 2025, Dr. Jonathan Harder, DO will provide retina care services at ICON Eyecare in Grand Junction. A fellowship-trained retinal specialist, Dr. Harder has served patients in Western Colorado since 2012. He specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and retinal vascular conditions using advanced, office-based therapies.
The most common conditions and diseases impacting the retina include:
Despite the variances between these conditions, the symptoms produced are usually the same.
Common symptoms of retinal diseases and conditions include:: new floaters, flashes of light, loss of vision, changes in peripheral vision, and wavy or blurred vision.
You might be surprised to hear that you can reduce your risk of retinal disease by making good choices today: maintain a healthy weight by exercising and eating well and not smoking.
Some retinal issues are not within your control: age, family history of retinal disease, and eye trauma.
Be sure to discuss risk factors with your provider and follow your eye doctor’s recommendation for annual or more frequent preventative examinations.
There are various treatments for retinal conditions. Your eye doctor will help you choose the treatment that offers the lowest risk and the greatest benefit. Potential treatment options may include:
Request a preventative or diagnostic appointment with one of our local retina specialists for evaluation of your specific symptoms and concerns, like retinal detachment or other complications.
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