The retina helps transport visual sensory input through the eye to your brain for processing. Learn more about how this key structure functions in the visual process, what can go wrong, and what you can do to support your retinal health.*

What is the retina and how does it work?

The retina is a thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the inner surface at the very back of the eye. The retina receives light that passes through the eye lens and translates it into electrical impulses that travel the optic nerve to the brain. The brain then processes these signals into visual images of what we’re seeing.

The retina lies opposite the pupil and eye lens. Like a camera, the eye lens bends and focuses incoming light onto the retina. Photoreceptor cells in the retina react to the light, translating it into electrical impulses the brain will understand. 

The retina has two parts.

• The macula is the central region of the retina and helps you to see what’s directly in front of you.
• The peripheral retina enables you to see what’s on the outer edges of your visual field.

There are also two types of photoreceptor cells that work together for a clear picture of the world around you.

• Rods enable you to see in dim light and at night.
• Cones process color and fulfill most of your daily visual needs.

Common disorders of the retina

Many conditions can affect the retina and impact vision, including:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), in which photoreceptors in the macula stop working and eventually die.
• Retinal vein occlusion, in which the blood vessel becomes blocked and the outflow of blood from the retina stagnates.
• Retinal detachment, in which the retina pulls away from supportive tissues.
• Retinitis pigmentosa, an umbrella term for inherited eye diseases impacting the retina.

Retinopathy, or blood vessel deterioration in the retina, often happens in diabetics (diabetes-related retinopathy) and prematurely born babies (retinopathy of prematurity), and can lead to permanent vision loss. Glaucoma affects retinal ganglion cells and the optic nerve.

Signs and symptoms of retinal problems

Cleveland Clinic advises contacting your healthcare provider if you notice any visual changes such as:

• Blurry vision,
• Loss of peripheral vision,
• Double vision,
• Sensitivity to light, or
• Any noticeable worsening of vision.

The retina is assessed during a comprehensive eye exam using an ophthalmoscope. Your eyes will be dilated and pictures may be taken for monitoring.

Caring for your retina

You can care for your retina in several ways.

• Regular eye exams can allow for any needed adjustments to glasses or contact lenses.
• If you are diabetic, see your eye care provider at least once each year.
• Wear protective eyewear during risky sports or activities. 

Cleveland Clinic emphasizes not waiting to see a doctor if you notice any changes in vision. “Talk to your provider about anything that seems ‘off’ with your eyes. The sooner you have a problem with your vision diagnosed, the more likely you are to avoid serious complications.”

*Cleveland Clinic. (2022, April 7). Retina. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22694-retina-eye