Have you been experiencing problems with your vision recently? There’s a chance that it could be your retina. The retina acts as a messenger between your brain and your eyes. It’s because of your retina that you’re able to make sense of what you are seeing. If there are problems with your retina, it can’t send clear signals to your brain, resulting in vision impairment.

Below are five telltale signs that you may have a damaged retina. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to schedule an appointment with a retina specialist right away. Without medical attention, retina damage can result in permanent blindness.

1. Distorted Vision

One of the first warning signs that something is wrong is distorted vision. Objects may appear out of shape or straight lines may appear wavy or bent. A common cause of distorted vision is age-related macular degeneration.

AMD occurs when the macula, a part of the retina, is damaged. You’ll lose central vision and be unable to see fine details. There are other causes of distorted vision, such as macular edema or keratoconus, so it’s important to see your eye doctor for a diagnosis.

2. Flashing Lights

When your retina is damaged, it sends the wrong signals to your brain. This can cause a number of abnormalities such as flashing lights and lightning streaks. Typically, this happens when the vitreous gel inside your eye rubs or pulls on the retina. It’s a similar feeling to being hit hard in the head and seeing ‘stars.’

3. Dim Vision

Dim vision is another sign that your retina may be sending mixed signals to your brain. Dim vision is characterized by things looking darker than usual. Some compare it to wearing slightly tinted sunglasses. Dimness happens because your retina works with your optic nerve to transform light into visuals. If either of these are damaged, you can experience dimness.

4. Double Vision

Double vision can be classified as a type of distorted vision. It occurs when you see two versions of the same thing. The doubled version is often blurry and less sharp compared to the original image. Because the two images can overlap, you may experience dizziness, nausea and headaches. While cataracts can also cause double vision, this usually only happens in one eye.

5. Floating Lines

Seeing random dots or lines in your field of vision isn’t unusual. We all experience this from time to time. However, if you notice that this is happening more often, or the lines and specks won’t go away, then it’s a sign that something more serious is going on. The same is true if the lines are building a ‘web’ and obstructing your vision.

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, schedule an appointment with your ophthalmologist. In many cases, retina specialists can repair a damaged retina, but time is of essence. Empire Retina Consultants is a Brooklyn-based practice that specializes in retinal diseases. Schedule an appointment today!