Our optometry office near Gallup is available for any retinal issues. 

Your retina is at the back of your eye and receives light that passes through your lens. It's responsible for converting that light into readable signals for your brain. Unfortunately, if you have a retinal issue, you may experience floaters, blurred or distorted vision, or even a loss of vision. Fortunately, Drs. McGraw can diagnose and treat problems with your retina. We also have specialist referral partners in multiple cities in New Mexico if it is determined that retinal surgery or injections are necessary.

We strongly encourage any existing or potential patients with new, sudden onset flashes or floaters in one eye to call our Gallup Eye Group at (505) 339-2015 for an urgent evaluation. 

General Information About Retinal Issues

Issues with your retina may affect your side vision and cause visual disturbances. For some individuals, a significant amount of vision loss is possible. 

The problem may stem from a tear in your retina. When this occurs, the vitreous – a gel-like substance – shrinks. It tugs on the tissue in your retina and can damage it. 

Your retina may detach. When the retina lifts away from the underlying tissue, you may experience tunnel vision and visual disturbances. Unfortunately, if you don't receive treatment soon enough, you could have permanent vision loss. 

Other possible issues with your retina include the following:

• Macular degeneration
• Macular hole
• Epiretinal membrane
• Diabetic retinopathy 
• Retinitis pigmentosa 

What to Expect During Your Appointment for Retinal Issues 

The first part of the exam consists of  Drs. McGraw asking you to complete a full medical history report, which inquires about any eye problems or other health problems you have. Then, you'll undergo an examination. Drs. McGraw will ask about any recent eye problems you've had. 

To fully evaluate the status of your retina, a dilated eye exam will be performed to allow the doctor sufficient views of the entire retina.

Further testing may be necessary. For instance,  Drs. McGraw may use an Amsler grid to access your peripheral vision. You'll need to identify if any of the lines on the grid appear distorted, broken, or faded. 

An optical coherence tomography test may be used to capture an image of your retina. This particular test looks for holes and swelling in your macula. 

Treatment for Retinal Issues 

Depending on the specific retinal issue you are experiencing, treatment, monitoring, or referral recommendations will be made by our doctors. Some conditions can safely be monitored at our clinic as they will clear on their own over time, but in cases or retinal tears or detachments, we will refer you to a surgical referral center for treatment as needed.

For more information about retinal issues, contact Gallup Eye Group at (505) 339-2015.