Detached Retina Symptoms
At Retina Associates, our goal is to ensure patients are able to experience the best vision possible. We offer advanced diagnosis and treatment of different retinal conditions, as well as patient education to aid in preventative care and prompt action. When it comes to damage to the retinas, this advice can mean the difference between good vision and lasting vision loss.
Right now, our Lenexa, KS retinal specialists would like to go over some of the most common signs and symptoms of retinal detachment. This should help you understand the severity of the condition and the warning signs that you need to seek medical attention.
What Is a Detached Retina?
The retina is the thin tissue located at the back of the eye. This tissue receives light that passes through the eye and converts that light into neural signals that the brain interprets into images.
A detached retina means that the retina has peeled off from the back of the eye, resulting in vision loss. The retina can also partially tear away from the back of the eye in small slits; this is known as a retinal tear, and it should be taken just as seriously as retinal detachment since it can also result in vision loss.
The Most Common Symptoms of Detached Retinas
The retinal specialists at our Shawnee Mission center advise people to be mindful of the following common signs of retinal detachment:
- Sudden appearance of floaters in your vision
- Sudden flashes of light in one or both eyes
- Blurry vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
- A shadow falling over your field of vision
Risk Factors of Detached Retinas
It’s also important for people to be mindful of the risk factors for retinal detachment. These issues could make retinal tears and detachment more likely:
- Advance age
- Previous retinal tears or detachment
- Previous eye surgery
- Previous eye injury or disorders
- Family history of retinal detachment
- Extreme nearsightedness (myopia)
Common Causes of a Detached Retina
Retina detachment can be caused by trauma to the face or body, though there are other conditions that may cause it to occur. The most common cause tends to be related to the aging process. As the vitreous gel in the eye shrinks, it can tug at the retina, pulling it away from the back of the eye and causing retinal detachment.
Seek Medical Attention as Soon as Possible
If you notice any of the above noted symptoms of retinal tears and detachment, it’s crucial that you seek medical attention right away. Not getting retinal detachment treated in a timely manner could increase the risk of permanent vision loss. Never delay when your vision is at stake, especially when you may have suffered any sort of damage to your retinas.
Will My Vision Be Restored?
Our retinal specialists will work diligently to reattach the retina using the latest techniques and technology. There is, however, no guarantee that your vision will be totally restored. Our Shawnee Mission retinal specialists will attempt to restore as much vision as possible.
If you do suffer partial vision loss despite our best attempts to preserve your vision, we can offer advice on what corrective lenses, assistive devices, and tools you should consider to aid with daily tasks.
Contact Our Skilled Team of Eye Doctors
For more information about treating retinal detachment and what to expect, be sure to contact our team of eye doctors. The team at Retina Associates can be reached by phone at (913) 831-7400.