Retinal Detachment
On this page, you will find everything you are looking for regarding retinal detachment.
What is retinal detachment?
The retina is a light-sensitive tissue lining the back part of the eyeball. It sends nerve signals through the optic nerve to the brain. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina tears, detaches, or moves away from the inner wall (the back part of the eyeball) of the eye, leading to a decrease in vision, which can be sudden and is considered a medical emergency.
What are the symptoms of retinal detachment?
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- Some individuals with retinal detachment may not notice any symptoms, depending on the extent of the detachment. When a large part of the retina detaches, symptoms begin to appear, including:
- Seeing flashes of light (similar to flashes).
- Seeing floaters in the field of vision (appearance of spots, threads, dark spots, and zigzag lines in the field of vision).
- Dimming or the appearance of a shadow around peripheral vision.
- Darkness or a curtain-like shadow appears in the field of vision.
Sudden decline in vision.
What are the causes of retinal detachment?
- There are risk factors that increase the likelihood of retinal detachment, including:
- Advancing age.
- Eye injury.
- Family history of retinal detachment.
- Previous eye surgery, such as cataract surgery.
Being nearsighted.
What are the diagnostic methods?
- The doctor takes a medical history and conducts a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
- A dilated eye exam is simple and painless. You will be given some drops to dilate your pupils, and then your eyes will be examined for detachment or any other eye problems.
In some cases, the doctor may perform an ultrasound exam if there is retinal bleeding that affects the clarity of vision in the dilated eye exam.
What are the treatment methods for retinal detachment?
- Treatment involves several procedures, as needed, and may include:
- Laser treatment or freezing: This involves using a laser or freezing tool to seal the tear, aiming to secure the retina in place.
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- Retinal surgery, which includes:
- Retinal fixation using gas.
- Scleral buckle or scleral fixation.
Vitrectomy.
What are the preventive measures for retinal detachment?
- There is no way to prevent retinal detachment, as it often occurs due to age progression, but retinal detachment resulting from injuries can be prevented by:
Ensuring eye protection from injuries by using protective glasses when practicing certain sports or working in laboratories, factories, and construction sites, or even when planning to do repairs in your home, don’t forget to protect your eyes.
If you notice any symptoms of retinal detachment, see a doctor immediately, as early treatment can prevent and protect against permanent vision loss, God willing.
What are the complications of retinal detachment?
Over time, neglecting and not treating retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss.
When should you see a doctor?
If you notice any changes in vision or any symptoms of retinal detachment.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have had retinal detachment; will it happen again?
