Retinal Detachment Symptoms

Unlike other eye conditions that are gradual, retinal detachment is often spontaneous and sudden. Without treatment, vision loss from retinal detachment can progress from minor to severe, including blindness, within a few hours or days. Thankfully, retinal detachments are rare, only affecting one in 10,000 people every year. Still, it is important to know retinal detachment symptoms in the event they occur. 

Retinal detachment is an eye condition in which the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue in the back of the eye, pulls away from its normal position resulting in the hemorrhaging of the eye. Retinal detachment symptoms include a sudden increase in floaters in the eye (these often present as dark spots or squiggly lines that float across vision), flashes of light in one or both eyes, gradual reduction of peripheral vision, blurred vision and a dark or gray curtain or shadow over the field of vision. There are 3 types of retinal detachment: rhegmatogenous, tractional and exudative. These different types represent different problems that cause the retina to move away from the back of the eye. The most common type of retinal detachment is rhegmatogenous, in which the vitreous, the gel-like substance in the center of the eye, shrinks, causing the retina to pull away from the back of the eye and tear. Tractional retinal detachment happens if scar tissue on the retina pulls the retina away from the back of the eye. Exudative retinal detachment takes place when fluid builds up behind the retina but does not cause it to tear or break. 

There are many causes of retinal detachment, but the most common causes are aging and eye injury. Leaking blood vessels, age-related macular degeneration, tumors and diseases that cause inflammation to the eyes may also factor into the cause of retinal detachment symptoms. 

Retinal detachment requires a medical diagnosis and medical treatment. Prompt treatment can be imperative to saving and preserving vision. Your eye doctor will likely determine a removal or reattachment surgery option such a vitrectomy, replantation, cryosurgery, scleral buckle or laser surgery. 

If you are in need of immediate treatment as you are currently experiencing retinal detachment symptoms, contact your eye care provider or go to the emergency room immediately. Associated Retina Consultants is available to treat the effects of retinal detachment symptoms as well as other essential eye health needs. Contact our office via 602-242-4928 for routine and emergency services. To learn more, visit online at WEBSITE.