Various conditions can affect the retina and macula at the back of the eye. Common conditions are diabetic retinopathy, retinal blood vessel obstruction (retinal artery or retinal vein occlusion), age-related wear and tear of the macula (age-related macular degeneration), disturbances in the vitreous gel of the eye, tear in the retina (retinal tear) or a detached retina (retinal detachment).

Patients may be asymptomatic or have a wide range of symptoms like ‘flashes and floaters’, blurred or distorted central vision, mild to severe loss of vision to name a few.

Commonly patients are referred by their optometrists who often have special cameras or scanners to take pictures of the back of the eye. Mr Bhatta would be happy to review these patients for a consultation to confirm the diagnosis and provide counselling for conditions that do not require treatment. Occasionally when treatment is necessary, Mr Bhatta can arrange a prompt referral to his retina colleagues if necessary in which case a transfer of care to the NHS may be necessary.

During examination of the retina, drops are used to dilate the pupil which makes the vision blurry for a couple of hours and driving is not advisable following the consultation.