Understanding Retinal Tears: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment
A retinal tear happens when the vitreous, the clear gel that fills the space between the lens and the retina of the eyeball, pulls on the retina and causes a tear. Although it’s different and less severe than a retinal detachment, which occurs when the retina pulls away from the tissues that support it, a retinal tear could lead to a detachment if left untreated. A retinal detachment is considered a medical emergency. If not swiftly addressed, it can lead to permanent vision loss.
Symptoms of a Retinal Tear
It’s possible to have a retinal tear without realizing it. However, most patients experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Flashes of light
- Seeing more black spots or floaters than usual
- Seeing shadows in your peripheral vision
- Darkening vision
- Blurred vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek help from a retina specialist immediately. It’s better to take action than to risk potential blindness.
Causes and Risk Factors of Retinal Tears
Advanced age, eye injuries, and eye surgeries can cause retinal tears. Risk factors for the condition include:
- Getting older
- Being nearsighted
- Having a retina that’s thinning
- A family history of retinal detachments or tears
Retinal Tear Treatments
A retina specialist can accurately and effectively diagnose and treat a retinal tear. Common treatment methods include:
- Laser treatment: A retina specialist can use a laser to fuse tissue back together and fix the tear. This non-invasive treatment is performed under local anesthesia, so it’s virtually painless.
- Vitrectomy: During a vitrectomy, the vitreous gel is removed, and air, a gas bubble, or silicone oil is injected in its place. This allows the retinal surgeon to reach the center of the eye more easily to repair retinal damage.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy is the process of freezing over the tear rather than using a laser, sealing the torn portion of the retina back into position.
Your retina specialist will promptly address the tear. The specific treatment they recommend will depend on the size and type of the tear and the best approach to prevent any further vision loss. Since a torn retina raises the risk of retinal detachment, they may also recommend additional treatments.