Diagnosing a Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is a condition which poses serious risks if left undiagnosed. Without medical treatment, retinal detachment can result in vision damage and even blindness. If you suspect that you may have a retinal tear or detachment, seek treatment from a trusted eye care professional right away.
What is retinal detachment?
The retina is a layer of tissue on the eye which is especially light-sensitive. It is the mechanism which sends the visual information from the eye to the brain to process. The retina can easily become detached from the rest of the eye, resulting in vision damage. Even when there are only slight tears, it can lead to the entire detachment of the retina and cause permanent damage to the eye.
What are the types of retinal detachment?
Retinal detachment can be categorized into three common types: rhegmatogenous, tractional, and exudative.
- Rhegmatogenous means that there is a tear in the retina which allows fluid to flow underneath. This can separate it from the pigment layer which keeps the retina nourished. This is the most common type of detached retina.
- A tractional detached retina includes scar tissue on the surface of the retina, which then causes the retina to separate from the retinal pigment epithelium.
- The exudative type is caused by trauma, which may include inflammatory diseases or injury. Fluid also leaks under the retina, but it is unlikely for there to be any tearing.
Who is vulnerable to retinal detachment?
Retinal detachments usually occur in patients over the age of 40, and are more common in men. Nearsighted patients and those who have suffered a detached retina before are also more predisposed to experiencing a subsequent detachment. Family history, a history of cataract surgery, and eye diseases can also affect your likelihood of developing a detached retina.
What are the symptoms?
When retinal detachment occurs, you will most likely experience “cobweb” floaters over your field of vision. You may also notice light flashing. When the symptoms worsen, you may notice a “curtain” covering the eye.
A detached retina will most likely be treated by laser surgery or by cryopexy. A more serious situation may even require surgery or a vitrectomy—a small incision which drains the fluids from underneath your eye. Consult your trusted eye care professional to determine which treatment would be best for you.
Schedule an Eye Exam with Dr. Ghosheh
If you suspect that you may have a detached retina, schedule an eye exam with renowned eye specialist Dr. Ghosheh today. For this and all other eye health concerns, contact his caring and experienced staff at Advanced Eye Medical Group.