Symptoms
Frequent symptoms associated with central serous retinopathy include:
A darker area in your central, or middle, visionBlurred central vision in only one eye but may affect your other eye, as wellHaving dimmed or blind spots in your visionPerceiving objects as smaller than they actually areSeeing colors incorrectlySeeing straight lines as bent, crooked, or irregular
These symptoms often occur in just one eye, but it is possible for both eyes to have the condition. Some people don’t have any symptoms at all when they have central serous retinopathy.
Complications
Most people with central serous retinopathy recover without any permanent effects on their vision. However, some lasting visual effects can include:
Having vision that changes from day to day, with vision being stronger some days than othersProblems seeing an object set against a similarly colored background (contrast sensitivity)Sensitivity to bright light
Reduced perception of colors, including not being able to discern between certain colorsScarring beneath the retinaWeaker vision at night
Most people find that central serous retinopathy goes away after four to six months. The condition has a greater association with vision loss if it lasts longer than a year because the swelling from the fluid can cause vision damage over time. An eye doctor will likely recommend treatment for prolonged central serous retinopathy.
Central serous retinopathy is more common in middle-aged men than in other groups, so complications also are more likely to include in this same population group.
When to See a Doctor
If you have the symptoms associated with central serous retinopathy, you should see an eye doctor. Although the condition does not always require treatment, it’s important for the doctor to confirm the cause of your blurred vision or other related symptoms.
You also will want to keep any follow-up appointments that your eye doctor schedules in the few months after a central serous retinopathy diagnosis. Your eye doctor can help confirm that your vision is recovering and that you are not experiencing any vision loss.
Summary
Central serous retinopathy is the name for a buildup of fluid under the retina. Symptoms include blurry central vision, seeing objects as closer than they are, and having blind spots in your vision. Most people recover their vision in a few months, but trouble with night vision and a reduced perception of colors can occur in the long term.
A Word From Verywell
Although it usually resolves on its own, the blurry vision and other symptoms associated with central serous retinopathy may bother you. Track your symptoms and see an eye doctor to confirm your diagnosis.
