According to the Mayo Clinic, retinal detachment is an emergency situation in which a thin layer of tissue (the retina) at the back of the eye pulls away from its underlying support tissue.
The warning signs of retinal detachment are:
- The appearance of tiny specks that seem to drift through your field of vision commonly referred to as floaters
- Flashes of light in one or both eyes
- Blurred vision
- A gradual reduction in peripheral or side vision
- A shadow over the visual field
There are three different types of retinal detachment:
Rhegamtogeneous – The most common type of detachment which occures slowly over time.
Tractional – A detachment that occurs when there is scar tissue growing on the retina’s surface
Exudative – Occurs when fluid accumulates beneath the retna without any tears or holes in the retna.
Aging and family history of retinal detachment are the most common risk factors for this condition. Those who already have a retinal detachment in one eye, have severe nearsightedness, have had previous eye surgery, have received a trauma to the eye or have an eye disorder that thins the retina are equally at risk.
Retinal detachment is an emergency so if you are experiencing flashes of light, floaters or a darkening of your field of vision, you will want to contact your eye doctor immediately. If a detachment isn’t repaired, you may have permanent vision loss.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of retinal detachment or would like to schecule an eye exam, please call the at for an appointment.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.