| Central serous retinopathy is a small,
round, shallow swelling that develops on the retina, the
light sensitive nerve layer that lines the back of the
eye. Although the swelling reduces or distorts vision,
the effects are usually temporary. Vision generally recovers
on its own within a few months.
In the initial stages of CSR, vision may suddenly become
blurred and dim. If the macula -- the area of the retina
responsible for acute central vision -- is not affected,
there may be no obvious symptoms.
CSR typically affects adults between the ages of 20
to 50. People with CSR often lose their retinal swelling
without treatment, and recover their original vision
within six months of the onset of symptoms. Some people
with frequent episodes may have some permanent vision
loss. Recurrences are common and can affect 20 to 50
percent of people with CSR. While the cause of CSR is
unknown, it seems to occur at times of major personal
or work related stress.
As CSR usually resolves on its own, no treatment may
be necessary. Sometimes laser surgery can reduce the
swelling sooner but there is no evidence this improves
the final visual outcome. If retinal swelling persists
for over three to four months or if an examination reveals
early retinal degeneration, laser surgery may be helpful. |
