Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It can cause blurred or distorted central vision, making activities like reading, recognising faces, and driving more difficult, while side vision usually remains intact. AMD typically develops with ageing, and early detection is important as treatments and lifestyle measures can help slow progression and protect vision. 

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Diabetic retinopathy is an eye condition caused by damage to the small blood vessels in the retina due to long-term diabetes. These vessels can leak, swell, or grow abnormally, leading to blurred vision, dark spots, difficulty seeing at night, or even vision loss if untreated. Regular eye checks are essential for people with diabetes, as early detection and timely treatment can help protect vision and prevent serious complications. 

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a condition where a vein draining blood from the retina becomes blocked, leading to swelling, bleeding, and reduced vision. It is commonly divided into branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), where a smaller branch vein is affected and vision loss is usually more localised, and central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), where the main vein is blocked and vision loss can be more severe. Treatment focuses on managing complications such as retinal swelling or abnormal blood vessel growth, often with eye injections, laser treatment, and careful control of underlying risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol. 

A retinal detachment is a serious eye condition where the retina peels away from the back of the eye, preventing it from working properly. People may notice sudden flashes of light, a shower of new floaters, or a dark curtain or shadow moving across their vision. Retinal detachment is an emergency that requires prompt treatment, as early laser or surgery can often reattach the retina and help preserve vision. 

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An epiretinal membrane (ERM) is a thin layer of scar-like tissue that forms on the surface of the retina, usually over the macula, which is responsible for detailed central vision. As this membrane tightens or wrinkles, it can cause blurred or distorted vision, making straight lines appear wavy and fine detail harder to see. ERMs often develop with ageing or after eye conditions such as retinal tears, inflammation, or surgery, and while mild cases may not need treatment, more significant symptoms can be improved with surgery to gently remove the membrane. 

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Cystoid macular oedema (CMO) is a condition where fluid accumulates in small cyst-like spaces within the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. This swelling causes blurred, distorted, or reduced central vision and may make reading or recognising faces difficult.

CMO often develops after eye surgery (especially cataract surgery), inflammation inside the eye (uveitis), retinal vein occlusion, diabetes, or as a reaction to certain eye conditions or treatments. Management depends on the cause and may include anti-inflammatory eye drops, steroid or anti-VEGF injections, and treatment of the underlying condition to reduce swelling and restore vision.