What is a retinal detachment?
A retinal detachment occurs when the retina is pulled away from its normal position. A retinal detachment is a very serious problem that almost always causes blindness unless it is treated promptly.
What causes a retinal detachment?
A clear gel called vitreous fills the middle of the eye. As we get older, the vitreous may pull away from its attachment to the retina at the back of the eye. Usually the vitreous separates from the retina without causing problems. Sometimes the vitreous pulls hard enough to tear the retina in one or more places. Fluid may pass through the retinal tear, lifting the retina off the back of the eye.
What are the warning signs of a retinal detachment?
These early symptoms may indicate the presence of a retinal detachment: flashing lights, new floaters, a gray curtain moving across your field of vision, a shadow in the periphery of your field of vision, “smoky” peripheral vision.
What treatment is needed?
There are several ways to fix a retinal detachment; that will depend on the characteristics of your detachment. The ophthalmologist will locate the retinal tears and use laser surgery or cryotherapy to seal the tear. There are other treatments to repair a more severe retinal detachment such as a scleral buckle, pneumatic retinopexy, and vitrectomy. The more severe the detachment, the less vision may return. It is very important to see your ophthalmologist at the first sign of the above symptoms. Benaim Eye is ready to serve your vision needs. Eye exams can be scheduled at 561-747-7777 or visit our website at benaimeye.com
