Intravitreal injection is a treatment in which medication is injected directly into the vitreous humor to treat retinal diseases, improve vision, and control retinal swelling or leakage. The procedure begins with an eye evaluation, followed by sterilization and local anesthesia. The ophthalmologist then precisely injects the medication into the vitreous and monitors the eye afterward for safety. Intravitreal injections deliver medication directly to the retina, providing rapid and targeted effects. The procedure is minimally painful, safe, and usually does not require hospital admission. Intravitreal injection is an effective and safe treatment for retinal diseases. It involves injecting medication directly into the vitreous cavity of the eye, allowing the drug to act quickly and precisely at the affected area. Understanding the procedure can help patients feel more confident and prepared for treatment.     What Is Intravitreal Injection? Intravitreal injection is a medical procedure used to treat various retinal and vitreous conditions. The ophthalmologist injects medication directly into the vitreous cavity located in the center of the eye so the medication can work rapidly and precisely. It is commonly used for conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, abnormal retinal blood vessels, retinal bleeding, and swelling.   The advantage is that the medication acts directly at the site of disease without extensive systemic circulation, reducing side effects. However, the procedure must be performed in a sterile environment by an ophthalmologist to prevent infection or complications such as inflammation or temporary increased eye pressure.   Who Is Intravitreal Injection Suitable For? This treatment is suitable for individuals with retinal conditions caused by abnormal blood vessels, including:   Diabetic Retinopathy, particularly diabetic macular edema, where damaged retinal blood vessels leak fluid or blood, causing blurred or distorted vision. Without treatment, permanent vision loss may occur. Wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Wet AMD), characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina that leaks fluid or blood, leading to central vision impairment. Early treatment, such as anti-VEGF injections, can slow disease progression. Retinal Vein Occlusion, where blockage of retinal veins causes fluid leakage, blurred vision, and potential long-term complications if untreated.   Intravitreal Injection Procedure The procedure is quick and usually painless due to local anesthesia. Steps include:   Local anesthetic eye drops are applied, and the eye area is disinfected to prevent infection. The ophthalmologist uses a small instrument to keep the eyelids open and injects medication through the sclera using a very fine needle. The injection takes only a few seconds. The eye is re-examined afterward, and post-treatment care instructions are provided. Benefits of Intravitreal Injection Intravitreal injections are highly effective because the medication targets the retina directly, providing fast and precise results. The procedure is minimally invasive, takes only minutes, involves little discomfort, and patients can usually return home immediately. It is considered a global standard treatment with a high safety profile.     Post-Injection Precautions Proper post-injection care helps reduce side effects and promotes faster recovery:   Avoid rubbing or scratching the eyes for at least 3–5 days to prevent infection. Avoid getting water into the eyes for 2–3 days; use a damp cloth instead of washing the face directly. Use prescribed eye drops exactly as directed and wash hands before and after application. Get adequate rest and avoid prolonged screen use. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, or bending the head downward during the first week. Avoid swimming or exposure to potentially contaminated water to reduce infection risk. Medications Used for Intravitreal Injection In addition to advanced retinal surgery, Bangkok Eye Hospital utilizes Anti-VEGF medications to inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce retinal swelling, which are key causes of blurred vision in diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Common internationally recognized medications include Lucentis and Eylea.   To provide effective and cost-efficient treatment, Bangkok Eye Hospital primarily uses Avastin and Vabysmo, each offering specific advantages depending on the patient’s condition.   Avastin Avastin is widely used worldwide due to its effectiveness and affordability, making long-term treatment more accessible for patients.   Vabysmo Vabysmo represents a newer innovation using dual-pathway technology that inhibits both VEGF and Ang-2 proteins, reducing inflammation and abnormal vessel fragility. It often provides longer-lasting retinal dryness and may reduce the frequency of injections.   At Bangkok Eye Hospital, retinal specialists carefully evaluate each patient to determine the most suitable medication based on eye condition and lifestyle, ensuring safety and optimal visual outcomes.     Why Choose Intravitreal Injection at Bangkok Eye Hospital? Bangkok Eye Hospital provides comprehensive retinal care with advanced technology and experienced retinal specialists. Services include detailed eye examinations, modern surgical techniques, intravitreal injections, close post-treatment follow-up, personalized treatment guidance, and comfortable care throughout the treatment process.   Summary Intravitreal injection is an effective treatment for retinal diseases such as diabetic macular edema, wet AMD, and other vascular retinal conditions. The procedure is quick, minimally painful due to local anesthesia, and allows medication to act directly on the retina for rapid results. Patients typically go home the same day without hospitalization. For comprehensive retinal care, visit Bangkok Eye Hospital.   Related Articles Recognizing Retinal Swelling Symptoms Retinal Hole Causes and Treatment Subconjunctival Hemorrhage: Causes and Treatment Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Common questions about intravitreal injections to help patients better understand this treatment.   How many injections are needed? The number of injections depends on the disease type and severity. Some patients may require a single injection, while others need repeated treatments as advised by their ophthalmologist.   How much does an intravitreal injection cost? Costs vary depending on the medication type, disease severity, number of injections required, and retinal condition. Consultation with an ophthalmologist is recommended for accurate pricing.   How long does recovery take? Vision improvements may begin within 1–2 weeks after injection, though recovery varies depending on individual response and disease severity. Follow-up treatments may be necessary.

Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes produce insufficient tears or poor-quality tears, leading to dryness, irritation, discomfort, or visual disturbance. Common vision problems include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia. Vitreous degeneration refers to changes in the eye’s vitreous gel becoming more liquid or forming clumps, causing floaters. Macular degeneration involves deterioration of the central retina, leading to distorted, blurred vision and possible vision loss. Cataracts cause clouding of the eye’s lens and blurred vision; glaucoma results from increased eye pressure damaging the optic nerve and risking vision loss; pterygium is degeneration of conjunctival tissue that may cause blurred vision or increased astigmatism; pinguecula is a similar conjunctival growth that does not extend onto the cornea. We rely on our eyes constantly to observe the world around us, which places significant strain on them and increases the risk of eye problems. Understanding common eye diseases and vision conditions helps us care for and protect our eyes properly, recognize early symptoms, and seek timely treatment to reduce the risk of future complications.     Dry Eye Syndrome Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes cannot produce enough quality tears, leading to irritation, burning sensations, foreign body sensation, or excessive tearing. Common causes include prolonged screen use, dry or windy environments, and extended contact lens wear. Relief and prevention include using artificial tears, resting the eyes regularly, blinking frequently, and avoiding dry environments.     Refractive Vision Problems Refractive errors are among the most common vision issues across all age groups. They occur when light entering the eye fails to focus precisely on the retina, resulting in blurred vision. Types include:   Myopia (Nearsightedness) Myopia occurs when the cornea is too curved or the eyeball is elongated, causing light to focus in front of the retina. This results in clear near vision but blurred distance vision. People may squint or strain their eyes to see clearly and sometimes experience headaches.   Genetics plays a major role, especially if parents are myopic. Prolonged near work, limited outdoor activity, and excessive screen use can worsen symptoms.   Hyperopia (Farsightedness) Hyperopia may occur from birth or develop with age, resulting in difficulty focusing on near objects.   Congenital Farsightedness Occurs when the cornea is too flat or the eyeball is shorter than normal, causing light to focus behind the retina. Individuals typically see distant objects clearly but struggle with near vision. It is often hereditary.   Presbyopia Presbyopia results from aging as the eye’s lens stiffens and loses flexibility, reducing focusing ability. Symptoms include difficulty reading small print, eye strain, headaches, sensitivity to light, and reduced night vision.   Astigmatism Astigmatism occurs when the cornea has an irregular shape, causing multiple focal points instead of one. Symptoms include eye strain, blurred or distorted vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night.   Causes may include congenital corneal irregularities, injury, eye surgery, or conditions such as keratoconus.   Vitreous Degeneration The vitreous is a clear gel filling the back of the eye. Vitreous degeneration occurs when the gel liquefies or forms clumps, leading to floaters or flashes of light.   It commonly occurs with aging, especially after age 50 or in individuals with myopia. Untreated cases may increase the risk of retinal tears or detachment.   Common Eye Diseases Eye diseases can significantly affect vision if not properly diagnosed and treated. Understanding symptoms and treatments helps protect eye health.   Cataracts Cataracts occur when the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, reducing light transmission and gradually impairing vision. Common in older adults but may occur in younger individuals due to steroid use, trauma, or inflammation.   Glaucoma Glaucoma involves optic nerve damage often linked to high eye pressure. Acute cases may cause pain, blurred vision, halos around lights, headache, nausea, or vomiting, while chronic glaucoma may progress silently.   Pterygium and Pinguecula Pterygium is degeneration of conjunctival tissue growing toward the cornea, potentially causing blurred vision or astigmatism. Pinguecula is similar but does not invade the cornea.     Age-Related Macular Degeneration Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the central retina, usually in individuals over 60, though increasingly seen earlier. It may cause distorted central vision, blurring, or dark spots.   While not curable, progression can be slowed through regular screening, healthy lifestyle habits, UV protection, balanced nutrition, exercise, weight control, and avoiding smoking.   Why Get Eye Checkups at Bangkok Eye Hospital? Bangkok Eye Hospital provides comprehensive eye care using advanced technology and experienced ophthalmologists across specialties. Services include detailed diagnosis, treatment, follow-up care, personalized consultation, and a comfortable treatment environment.   Summary Regular eye care is essential. Annual eye examinations help detect abnormalities early. Adequate rest, balanced nutrition rich in vitamins A and C, and proper visual habits support eye health. Visit Bangkok Eye Hospital for comprehensive eye care services.   Related Articles LASIK for Myopia: Preparation and Benefits Glaucoma Treatment and Prevention Understanding Retinitis: Causes and Treatment Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Common questions about eye health and vision problems to help patients better understand prevention and treatment.   How should older adults care for their vision? Regular eye exams at least annually, adequate rest, hydration, balanced diet rich in antioxidants, avoiding smoking, and controlling blood sugar are important preventive measures.   How can vision problems in children be prevented? Encourage regular breaks during near work, limit screen time, promote outdoor activities, ensure adequate lighting, and schedule regular eye examinations.   What should I do if I experience dizziness or blurred vision? Consult an ophthalmologist for eye examination, adjust glasses or contact lenses if necessary, rest your eyes regularly, and avoid bright glare. Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.