A retinal detachment sounds like a serious issue, and in fact, it is. As we grow older, we should understand how and why it happens, and our individual risk factors. Then pay attention to the 4 early warning signs of a retinal detachment.
A Retinal Detachment Is An Emergency
A retinal detachment occurs when the white gel like vitreous in our eye pulls away from the back of our eye, the retina. At the same time the retina lifts away from the back of the eye. Consequently, the retina cannot work when it is detached making vision blurry.
As we get older the vitreous in our eyes gets thinner and shrinks. Most of the time as the eye moves, the vitreous moves around on the retina without causing problems. However, sometimes part of the vitreous sticks to the retina and can pull hard enough to tear it. If that happens, fluid can pass through the tear and detach the retina.
Without prompt treatment, it can cause blindness.
4 Early Warning Signs Of A Retinal Detachment
You won’t feel a retinal detachment, but you will notice some sudden changes in your vision.
They include the following:
- The sudden appearance of many floaters that can look like cobwebs
- Flashes of light in one or both eyes
- Reduced peripheral vision like a shadow gradually covering your side vision
- A gray curtain covering part of your field of vision
Don’t delay to call Retina Specialists of Tampa if you notice these signs. The symptoms can come on quickly, and prompt treatment is crucial to prevent the detachment from becoming worse. This increases the risk of permanent vision loss or blindness.
Risk Factors For A Retinal Detachment
Knowing your personal risk factors gives you more information.
You are more susceptible if you have a family member who had a retinal detachment, if you are nearsighted, have had cataract or glaucoma surgery, have experienced a trauma to your eyes, or if you have had a retinal detachment in the other eye.
Contact Retina Specialists of Tampa at (813) 973-3333 to have your eyes checked frequently if you have any of these risk factors, and especially if you are middle aged and older.
