Signs of a Retinal Detachment

One of the most serious eye problems that can occur is a detached retina. While a detached retina can affect anyone, it is more common as we age. Learning the signs and symptoms can help you know when to get emergency treatment. Keep reading below to learn more about a detached retina. 

What is a retinal detachment? 

A detached retina is exactly what it sounds like. It involves the separation of the retina from the blood vessels that supply it with oxygen. In some cases, the retina may tear. In other instances, the retina can partially or completely detach.

A retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss. Although treatment can help, the longer the condition is untreated, the greater the risk of vision loss. 
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Signs and symptoms 

It is vital to recognize signs of a detached retina as soon as possible. If only a small section of the retina detached, you may not have any symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they may include:

• New floaters, which may appear as lines, specs, or cobwebs
• Flashes of light in the eye
• A dark shadow in the middle of your field of vision or side vision 
• Symptoms may develop suddenly 

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What to do if you have symptoms

The symptoms of a detached retina can also occur with other conditions, but it is better to err on the side of caution and get checked out immediately if you develop any of the above symptoms. A detached retina is an emergency. You need to head to the eye doctor or emergency room if you think you have a detached retina. 

Risks and causes 

Anyone can develop a detached retina, but there are certain factors that may increase your risk, such as:

• Aging: As we age, the gel-like substance in the eye may pull away from the retina.

• Eye Injury: Having a serious eye injury, such as a trauma or a blow to the eye, can lead to a retinal detachment.
• Eye surgery: Having past eye surgery, such as surgery for glaucoma, can increase your risk.
• Past history: Having a history of a past retinal detachment or having a family member with a retinal detachment also increases your risk.
• Diabetes: A history of diabetic retinopathy increases your risk.
• Some uncommon eye diseases: Certain eye conditions, such as retinoschisis, which occurs when the retina separates into two layers, also increase your risk. 

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Treatment 

Treatment for a retinal detachment involves surgery. There are a few different surgical approaches that may be used. The best option may depend on the extent of the tear or detachment. Possible options include laser surgery or freezing if a retinal tear is present. If the retina detached, other surgical options may be performed.

After surgery, depending on the type of procedure you had, you may have to keep your head in a certain position while the eye heals. You may also need to avoid certain activities, such as intense exercise. 
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​Prevention 

There is no way to completely prevent a detached retina. In some cases, it occurs due to aging, which is not controllable, but it can also occur due to an eye injury. You can reduce your risk of an eye injury by wearing appropriate safety goggles or eyewear for the activity you are doing.

It is also helpful to have a dilated eye exam every year. A dilated eye exam can help your eye doctor identify small tears or the start of a retinal detachment before it becomes severe.

If you have any questions about retinal detachment, we are happy to help. Also, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.