Retinal detachment occurs if a part or the entire retina detaches from the back of the eye. The retina is a thin film of nerve tissue which covers the back part of the eye. The nerve cells in the retina generally detect light that enters the eye and transmits signals to the brain on what the eye sees. Once retinal detachment occurs, it no long functions properly which causes blurred and loss of vision. This necessitates immediate medical attention. If treatment is delayed, surgery is the only option to save the vision.
What are the causes?
Retinal detachment typically occurs due to a tear in the retina. The usual root of a rip is posterior vitreous detachment. The vitreous fluid drains via the tear and builds up below the retina and raises the retina from the back of the eye.
It can also occur without a tear to the retina. The buildup of scar tissue in the eye can tug on the retina which is known as traction. In some cases, the fluid accumulates below the retina due to a different reason.
In some cases, eye or head injury, eye diseases, diabetes and nearsightedness increases the chances for detachment to occur. Unfortunately, most cases could not be prevented. Regular check-ups with the doctor, proper management of diabetes and using protective helmets and eyeglasses can protect vision.
Indications
Floaters and flashes of light occur before any symptoms of retinal detachment manifest.
- Floaters are specks, spots and lines that float through the field of vision.
- Flashes of light are momentary sparkles or lightning streaks that are seen when the eyes are closed.
Both do not always indicate a retinal detachment but can be an indication, thus it is best to be assessed by a doctor right away.
Oftentimes, it occurs without warning. The initial sign of detachment might be a shadow across part of the vision that does not go away. In some cases, there is new and abrupt loss of peripheral vision that worsens over time.
Management
Retinal detachment requires immediate care. If not treated, loss of vision can progress from minor to severe or even blindness in just a few hours or days.
Surgery is the only option to reattach the retina. In most instances, surgery can effectively restore vision. The surgical options include air bubbles, lasers or a freezing probe to fix the tear and reattach the retina.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on retinal detachment is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage eye emergencies including retinal detachment, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.