Retinal detachment is a severe eye condition. It happens when the retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye, is dislodged from its normal position. Its detachment is a medical emergency. It requires immediate attention to prevent permanent vision loss. Read on to understand how critical retinal detachment is.

Causes of Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment can occur due to age, where the vitreous gel inside your eye shrinks and pulls away from the retina. Direct trauma to the eye or head can also cause retinal detachment. It can happen in car accidents, sports injuries, or a blow to your eye.

Individuals with severe nearsightedness are highly at risk of developing retinal detachment. The elongated eyeball in myopia increases the likelihood of retinal tears or detachment. Individuals who have undergone eye surgeries may be at an increased risk of developing detachment in the other eye.

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment

Recognizing retinal detachment symptoms is crucial for seeking prompt medical attention. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Floaters – Specks or spots that seem to float across the visual field.

• Flashes of light – They resemble lightning streaks in the peripheral vision. They may occur as the detached retina stimulates the light-sensitive cells.

• Shadow or curtain effect – It occurs in your central or peripheral vision. It may gradually progress if untreated.

• Blurred vision – The detachment of your retina can cause blurred or distorted sight in the affected eye.

Seek help from your health care professional if you experience any of the following symptoms for treatment.

Retinal Detachment Risk Factors

Retinal detachment can occur in anyone, but some factors heighten the chances of developing the condition. It is more common in individuals over 40—its risk increases with age. A family history of retinal detachment puts an individual at a higher risk of developing the condition. Some eye conditions are also risk factors. These include uveitis or retinoschisis. Previous retinal detachment in one eye increases the chances of developing the condition in the other eye.

Diagnosing Retinal Detachment

Your optometrist will perform a comprehensive eye examination to diagnose retinal detachment. The assessment may involve using unique eye drops to dilate your pupil to get a detailed view of your retina.

They will also conduct a visual acuity test to measure how well you can see at various distances. A tonometry test can measure the pressure inside your eye. Elevated intraocular pressure is sometimes associated with retinal detachment.

Treatment for Retinal Detachment

Treatment options for retinal detachment seek to reattach the retina and restore normal vision. The treatment choice depends on the severity of the condition. Recovery and prognosis vary. However, prompt diagnosis and treatment offer the best chances of successful reattachment. It also helps in preserving your vision.

Consulting your eye care professional will help. They can identify the appropriate treatment for your condition. Patients must adhere to postoperative instructions and attend regular follow-up visits following surgery. Preventative measures include routine eye exams, wearing protective eyewear, and managing eye conditions. Promptly addressing symptoms always helps.

For more information on retinal detachment, visit Gulf Coast Retina Center at our offices in Sarasota or Venice, Florida. Be seen today, or call (941) 312-2769 to schedule an appointment.