Central Serous Retinopathy (CSR): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Explained

Medically reviewed by Tina Patel, Contact Lens Optician at Feel Good Contacts

• Understanding central serous retinopathy
• Causes of central serous retinopathy
• Central serous retinopathy symptoms and diagnosis
• Diagnosis of CSR
• Treatment options for central serous retinopathy
• Living with CSR

This article will provide an informative and comprehensive guide on central serous retinopathy (CSR). You’ll learn about what causes this condition, the symptoms to look out for as well as various treatment options available.

Understanding central serous retinopathy (CSR)

Central serous retinopathy (CSR) is a retinal disorder that causes fluid to build up behind the retina, affecting the central part of the retina which is called the macula. The build-up of fluid in the eye can cause vision issues and, in some cases, it can cause a detached retina. CSR more commonly occurs in just one eye, but it can affect both. Those with this condition may not be able to see the central part of their vision, much like those with age-related macular degeneration.

Causes of central serous retinopathy

Some risk factors of central serous retinopathy include:

• High levels of stress
• Steroid use
• Autoimmune disease
• Sleeping conditions like sleep apnoea/insomnia
• High blood pressure

Central serous retinopathy symptoms and diagnosis

Symptoms of CSR include:

• Blurry vision
• Items appearing smaller than they actually are
• Blind spots in vision
• Photophobia (light sensitivity)

Diagnosis of CSR

CSR diagnosisDiagnosis involves an ophthalmologist widening your pupils with dilating eye drops so that they can better see the retina clearly.. Photographs will then be taken of the eye. Fluorescein angiography is a test where dye is injected into the vein of the arm and then the eyes are monitored as the dye travels through the bloodstream. As the dye passes through the blood vessels of the eyes, if. If the dye turns orange, this shows irregularity in the eye.

They may also scan the eye using optical coherence tomography (OCT) to form a 3D image of the retina, allowing them to see if there are any issues such as swelling.

Treatment options for central serous retinopathy

Most cases of this condition do not need to be treated and will be resolved within a few weeks or months. The ophthalmologist will assess the eyes over time to ensure the liquid has disappeared.

With chronic cases of this condition, there are some treatment options that may be suggested. If vision loss occurs and/or the liquid remains, laser treatment, eye injections or oral medication may be offered. Sometimes anti-VEGF treatment may be given to stop new blood vessels from forming in the eyes.

Living with CSR

Once the fluid drains in the eye, all symptoms of vision loss will usually disappear, leaving no lasting damage. Most cases of this condition go away without the need for treatment, however there are some cases where permanent vision loss is caused, therefore diagnosis is crucial

About half of those with the condition will experience CSR again, so it’s important to have regular eye health check-ups. If you notice any changes in your vision, it’s important to have an eye test with your optician to ensure your symptoms aren’t related to any eye conditions that might need treatment.