When you think of eye problems, retinal detachment probably isn’t the first thing to come to mind. After all, it’s less common than issues like cataracts, diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma.
Although it affects fewer people, retinal detachment is serious. Its symptoms can come on quickly and, without treatment, can lead to permanent blindness.
But how do you know if you’re at risk of retinal detachment? And what signs should you watch for? Paul Edwards, M.D., an ophthalmologist at Henry Ford Health, explains what you need to know to protect your vision.
What Is Retinal Detachment?
Your retina is a lining that’s attached to the back wall of your eye. And it’s absolutely essential for your vision.
“Your retina contains special cells called photoreceptors that respond to light,” explains Dr. Edwards. “When light hits the retina, the photoreceptors send electrical signals to your optic nerve, which transmits the signals to the brain. Then, your brain turns the signals into images.”
Your retina must remain attached to the back of your eye because that’s how it receives blood, oxygen and nutrients. “But if your retina becomes torn or scarred, it can start to peel off like wallpaper coming off a wall,” says Dr. Edwards. “The retina can lose some of its blood supply, which damages its cells.”
Eye Care At Henry Ford
Know The Signs Of Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment isn’t always painful, and you may not have symptoms in the early stages. But as the detachment gets worse, you may notice:
- New floaters (spots, squiggly lines or “spider webs” moving in your vision)
- Flashes of light
- Shadows or a “curtain,” usually on the sides of your vision
If you notice these symptoms, don’t wait. Seek medical care right away. “Retinal detachment must be treated by an ophthalmologist,” says Dr. Edwards. “If you don’t have an ophthalmologist, go to the nearest emergency room. With early treatment, an ophthalmologist can often save your retina and your vision.”
Who Is At Risk Of Getting Retinal Detachment?
Knowing the symptoms of retinal detachment is important, but you should also know the risk factors. While anyone can get retinal detachment, certain factors put you at higher risk, including:
- Age: Your eye is filled with vitreous, a jelly-like fluid that moves around your retina. As we get older and our eyes age, the fluid can become thinner and more fluid in texture. The thinner liquid can move away from your retina, which can tear it and pull it away from the back of your eye.
- Eye or face trauma: If your eyes or face are injured, your retina can be injured, too. “Getting hit with a ball or being in an accident are common ways you can injure your eye,” says Dr. Edwards.
- Eye surgery: If you’ve had surgery for cataracts or glaucoma, you have a higher risk of experiencing a retinal detachment.
- Family history: If someone in your family (parent, sibling or grandparent) has experienced retinal detachment, your risk of having one is higher.
- Nearsightedness: If you’re nearsighted (can’t see far-away objects), your retina is thinner and more stretched out. “A thinner retina is more likely to become detached,” says Dr. Edwards.
- Other eye conditions: People with other eye diseases are more likely to have retinal scarring or breaks, which can lead to detachment. Diseases that increase your risk include diabetic retinopathy, retinoschisis (where the retina’s layers separate) or lattice degeneration (where the edges of your retina become thinner).
- Previous retinal detachment: If you’ve already had a retinal detachment, you have a higher risk of having one again.
Can I Prevent Retinal Detachment?
It can be scary to think that a serious eye condition could strike without warning. But you’re not powerless against it. Here’s what you can do to minimize your risk:
- Get eye exams: See an eye care provider regularly for a comprehensive eye exam. “Your provider can determine how often you need exams based on your age and overall health,” says Dr. Edwards.
- Don’t wait to get treatment: If you notice sudden changes in your vision or experience an eye injury, get medical care right away.
- Manage chronic conditions: “Diabetes, high blood pressure and other long-term conditions can affect eye health,” Dr. Edwards explains. “Your healthcare provider can help you keep these conditions under control so you can avoid complications.”
- Protect your eyes: Wear proper eye protection if you work around eye hazards or play sports.
Eye Care Is Healthcare
Your eyes work hard every day, and they deserve regular care to keep them healthy. “Many people see their doctor for checkups, but don’t think about regular eye exams,” says Dr. Edwards. “But eye care is essential to your overall health. Regular visits with an eye care provider are the best way to catch eye conditions early and avoid potentially serious vision problems.”
Reviewed by Dr. Paul Edwards, an ophthalmologist who sees patients at Henry Ford Medical Center - Livonia and Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.
