Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye, separates from the underlying supportive tissue. The retina is essential for converting light into neural signals that the brain interprets as vision. When it detaches, the retina can no longer function properly, leading to potential vision loss or blindness if not addressed quickly.

Types of Retinal Detachment

• Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment:

  • The most common type, caused by a tear or hole in the retina. This tear allows fluid from the vitreous gel inside the eye to seep underneath the retina, causing it to lift away from the supportive tissue.

• Tractional Retinal Detachment:

  • Occurs when scar tissue on the retina’s surface contracts and pulls the retina away from the underlying tissue. This type is often associated with diabetic retinopathy.

• Exudative Retinal Detachment:

  • Caused by inflammation, injury, or other conditions that lead to fluid accumulation under the retina without a tear or break. This fluid pushes the retina away from the underlying tissue.

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Symptoms may include:

• Sudden Onset of Floaters: A sudden increase in small, dark shapes or specks that drift through your vision.
• Flashes of Light: Brief flashes of light, especially in peripheral vision, often described as “lightning streaks.”
• Shadow or Curtain Over Vision: A shadow or “curtain” moving across the field of vision, which can indicate the detachment is progressing.
• Blurry Vision: Sudden blurring of vision, which may worsen over time.
• Loss of Peripheral Vision: Gradual reduction in peripheral vision, often in one eye.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of retinal detachment, including:

• Aging: The risk increases with age as the vitreous gel in the eye shrinks and pulls away from the retina.
• Previous Eye Surgery: Such as cataract removal, which can increase the risk.
• Severe Myopia (Nearsightedness): Individuals with severe myopia have a higher risk of developing retinal detachment.
• Eye Injury: Trauma to the eye can cause retinal tears or detachments.
• Family History: A family history of retinal detachment can increase the risk.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: This condition can lead to the formation of scar tissue, increasing the risk of tractional retinal detachment.