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Reston   (703) 485-2148 Leesburg   (703) 777-1244
Reston   (703) 485-2148 Leesburg   (703) 777-1244
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Central Serous Retinopathy

When fluid builds up behind the retina, it can cause the retina to detach from the back of the eye. When this occurs in the central part of the retina, this is called central serous retinopathy. 

Symptoms of Central Serous Retinopathy

Central serous retinopathy does not always have obvious symptoms. However, some patients may experience: 

  • Sudden or gradual vision loss
  • Blurry vision in one eye
  • Dark spot in central vision
  • Straight lines appear wavy
  • Dullness in color vision

Risk Factors for Central Serous Retinopathy

Central serous retinopathy typically affects men between the ages of 30 and 50, but women can also develop the condition. Other risk factors include:  

  • Aging 
  • Stress
  • Medications that cause inflammation such as corticosteroids
  • Caucasian race

While you cannot stop the aging process, lifestyle changes to reduce stress can reduce these risks: getting plenty of sleep, exercising, limiting alcohol and caffeine, etc. 

Treatment for Central Serous Retinopathy

Treatment for this condition is not always necessary. The fluid may simply drain on its own. However, this is not a condition that you should self-diagnose or ignore. Regular eye exams will allow your doctor to monitor the condition. If your fluid is being stubborn, your doctor may recommend: 

  • Medications (or the halting of medications): anti-vascular endothelial growth factor medications may help prevent fragile blood vessels from forming on the retina; steroid medication use should be stopped
  • Photodynamic therapy: the combination of the drug verteporfin and a cool laser is used to stop the leak and prevent future leaks
  • Thermal laser treatment: performed to seal the leak 

If you are experiencing any vision changes, contact our retina doctor in Reston to schedule a comprehensive eye exam to prevent permanent vision loss. 

Our Locations

Reston

12110 Sunset Hills Rd., Suite 50 LL
Reston, VA 20190

Jacqueline Deneen Griffiths, MD

Leesburgs

20 Davis Ave. SW
Leesburg, VA 20175

Claiborne M. Callahan, MD

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