I have a retinal condition

Living with a retinal condition

Find condition information, patient resources, support organisations and the latest research – all in one place.

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Conditions

Find your condition

Browse our library of inherited retinal diseases and other conditions affecting vision.

Age-Related & Acquired Retinal Conditions

Unlike inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), which are caused by genetic changes passed down through families, age-related and acquired retinal conditions usually develop later in life. They can be caused by ageing, other health conditions, problems with blood vessels, inflammation, injury, or other factors. These conditions affect the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that helps us see. Damage to the retina can affect central or peripheral vision, colour vision, or overall clarity.

IRDs

Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs; also called “inherited retinal dystrophies or degenerations”) are a group of rare genetic eye conditions that damage the retina’s light-sensitive cells, causing vision loss that can worsen over time. IRDs can affect people of all ages and are estimated to affect around 1 in 3,000 people worldwide.

Additional Vision-Related Conditions

Vision is a complex process involving multiple structures of the eye and visual system working together. While Retina International’s primary focus is on retinal conditions, other parts of the eye can also be affected by disease or damage, leading to changes in vision and quality of life.