Straight Lines Look Bent or Wavy

What Causes Straight Lines to Look Bent or Wavy?

When straight lines begin to look bent or wavy, it’s often related to problems with the retina, especially the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. Some common causes include:

• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): A condition affecting the elderly, where the macula deteriorates, causing distorted vision.
• Retinal Detachment: When the retina separates from the back of the eye, causing distortion in vision.
• Macular Edema: Swelling in the retina’s macula that distorts vision.
• Epiretinal Membrane: A thin layer of scar tissue forms on the retina, causing visual disturbances.
• Other Retinal Diseases: Inflammation, injury, or other retinal disorders can cause this symptom.

Early diagnosis is essential to prevent worsening of the condition.

Types of Conditions that Cause Visual Distortion

There are various eye conditions that may cause straight lines to appear bent or wavy. These include:

• Dry AMD vs Wet AMD: Dry AMD progresses slowly, while Wet AMD can cause sudden and severe vision distortion.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: A complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina.
• Central Serous Retinopathy: A buildup of fluid under the retina, distorting vision.

Dr. Suraj Munjal can help determine the exact type of condition affecting your eyes through advanced diagnostic tests.

Symptoms of Distorted Vision

If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should consult an ophthalmologist immediately:

• Straight lines appearing bent or wavy
• Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
• Blurred or fuzzy central vision
• Dark spots or gaps in your field of vision
• Colors appearing faded

Early detection of these symptoms is crucial for effective treatment.

How is Distorted Vision Diagnosed?

Dr. Suraj Munjal will conduct a thorough eye examination to determine the cause of your visual distortion. Some common diagnostic tests include:

• Amsler Grid Test: This grid helps detect any distortion in vision by showing if straight lines appear bent or wavy.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A detailed imaging test that reveals the structure of the retina and helps identify macular conditions.
• Fluorescein Angiography: A dye test to examine blood flow in the retina.

Treatment Options for Bent or Wavy Vision

Depending on the diagnosis, Dr. Suraj Munjal may recommend several treatment options:

• Anti-VEGF Injections: Commonly used for Wet AMD, these injections prevent abnormal blood vessels from growing in the retina.
• Laser Surgery: Used to repair retinal tears or to stop fluid buildup under the retina.
• Photodynamic Therapy: A combination of medication and laser treatment to treat abnormal blood vessels in the retina.
• Vitrectomy Surgery: Removal of scar tissue or fluid that’s causing vision distortion.

Cost of Treatment and Stay in India

India offers high-quality eye care at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries. The cost of treatment for retinal conditions that cause visual distortions varies based on the specific treatment plan, but here’s a general estimate:

• Anti-VEGF Injections: $300 – $500 per injection
• Laser Surgery: $500 – $1,200 depending on the complexity
• Vitrectomy Surgery: $1,500 – $3,000