Retinal Detachment Causes

Retinal detachment is as alarming as it sounds. In fact, if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of retinal detachment, you should seek immediate medical attention. A detached retina is considered an emergency wherein the retina is pulled from its normal position. The retina is the thin, light sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye. When the retina detaches, it no longer receives oxygen and nourishment from blood vessels. The longer you wait for treatment, the greater likelihood of vision damage or vision loss. 

Retinal detachment usually occurs due to age or eye injury. There are 3 main retinal detachment causes: rhegmatogenous, tractional and exudative. Rhegmatogenous is the most common type of retinal detachment and is brought on by age. This type of detachment causes a small tear or hole in the retina. When this break takes place, vitreous, the gel-like substance in the center of the eye, can escape to the back of the retina. The vitreous pushes the retina out of place causing detachment. Tractional retinal detachment is when scar tissue causes to the retina to pull out of place. The most common cause of tractional retinal detachment is diabetic retinopathy, an eye condition associated with diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy damages blood vessels in the retina. Proper management and control of diabetes is important for the health of the eyes. Exudative covers all other retinal detachment causes such as injury or trauma to the eye, age-related macular degeneration, tumors in the eye, diseases that cause inflammation of the eye, and the rare Coats disease. With this type of detachment, fluid accumulates beneath the retina without causing a hole or tear. 

The best course of prevention is scheduling a comprehensive eye exam with your doctor annually. Series of tests can be performed to ensure the health of your eyes and allow your doctor to see the back of the retina including the optic disk and blood vessels that nourish the retina. Common retinal detachment symptoms include floaters, flashing lights, gradual reduction of peripheral vision, blurred vision and a dark or gray curtain or shadow over the field of vision. 

If you are concerned about retinal detachments causes or any other eye health issues, our team at Associated Retina Consultants welcomes the opportunity to get to know you and how we can help you achieve the best vision possible. Simply fill out our online contact form here WEBSITE or reach out to our friendly office staff by calling 602-242-4928 so we can schedule your next appointment. Remember that retinal detachment is an emergency so if you think you may be experiencing any of the above listed symptoms, make sure you receive prompt medical attention.