Retinal detachment (ablatio retina)
- Article
- 2021-01-31
Retinal detachment is an eye problem that occurs when your retina (a light-sensitive layer of tissue in the back of your eye) is pulled away from its normal position at the back of your eye. If only a small part of your retina has become detached, you may not have any symptoms. But if more of your retina is detached, you may not be able to see as clearly as normal and you may notice other sudden symptoms, including: Retinal detachment can be a medical emergency. If you have symptoms of a detached retina, it's important to see your eye doctor or the emergency room right away. The symptoms of retinal detachment often come on quickly. If the retinal detachment is not treated right away, more of the retina can come off - increasing the risk of permanent vision loss or blindness. Anyone can have a retinal detachment, but some people are at greater risk. You're at higher risk if: Some other problems with your eyes can also put you at higher risk, including: If you are concerned about your risk of retinal detachment, talk to your eye doctor. There are many causes of retinal detachment, but the most common are aging or eye damage. There are 3 types of retinal detachment: rhematogenic, tractional and exudative. Each type occurs because of a different problem that causes your retina to move away from the back of your eye. There is no way to prevent retinal detachment, but you can lower your risk by wearing goggles or other eye protection when performing high-risk activities, such as playing sports. If you experience symptoms of retinal detachment, see your eye doctor or the emergency room right away. Early treatment can help prevent permanent vision loss. It's also important to get comprehensive, dilated eye exams on a regular basis. A dilated eye exam can help your eye doctor detect a small tear or detachment of the retina early on before it starts to affect your vision. Retinal detachment can happen to anyone If you have an eye injury or trauma (such as something that hits your eye) it is important to see an eye doctor to check for early signs of retinal detachment Seeing a few small dark spots or squiggly lines in your vision (floaters) is normal - but if you suddenly see a lot more floaters than usual, it's important to get your eyes checked right away If you see warning signs of a retinal detachment, your eye doctor can check your eyes with a dilated eye exam. The exam is simple and painless - your doctor will give you some eye drops to dilate (dilate) your pupil, then look at your retina in the back of your eye. What are the symptoms of retinal detachment?
Am I at risk of retinal detachment?
What Causes Retinal Detachment?
How can I prevent retinal detachment?
Did you know?
How does my eye doctor check for retinal detachment?