Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that occurs when the retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the inner surface of the eye, becomes separated from the underlying supportive tissue. This detachment can cause vision loss or blindness.
However, if detected early, retinal detachment can be treated successfully with surgery. Here are ten red flags for retinal detachment that individuals should be aware of:.
1. Floaters and flashes
Floaters are tiny specks, dots, or cobweb-like shapes that appear to drift across your vision. Flashes are brief bursts of light that may appear as a lightning streak or a shooting star. These symptoms are the most common signs of retinal detachment.
2. Curtains or shadows
If you notice a shadow or a curtain-like effect in your vision field, it could indicate that the retina has detached and is casting a shadow on the rest of the eye.
This symptom usually signals a more serious detachment and requires immediate medical attention.
3. Blurred central vision
Retinal detachment can cause blurred vision, especially in the central field of your vision. This symptom can appear suddenly and worsen over time if left untreated, eventually leading to blindness in that eye.
4. Decreased peripheral vision
Retinal detachment can also affect your peripheral vision, causing you to lose sight of objects that are off to the side. This symptom can be gradual or sudden and may worsen as the detachment progresses.
5. Distorted vision
If straight lines appear wavy or curved, or if objects appear distorted or misshapen, it could be a sign of retinal detachment.
Related Article
Warning signs of retinal detachment
This symptom is caused by the part of the retina that receives visual information from the affected area starting to malfunction or stop working entirely.
6. Near-sightedness or myopia
Individuals with near-sightedness or myopia are at a higher risk of retinal detachment, as their eyes tend to be longer and more stretched out, which increases the risk of tearing or detachment of the retina.
If you have near-sightedness or myopia, it’s essential to be aware of the red flags mentioned above and to have regular eye exams to monitor your eye health.
7. Previous eye surgery or injury
If you’ve had previous eye surgery or an eye injury, you may be at a higher risk of retinal detachment. Scar tissue or trauma can cause the retina to detach or tear, leading to vision loss or blindness if left untreated.
8. Age and family history
Retinal detachment can occur at any age, but it’s more common in adults over 40 years old. Also, if you have a family history of retinal detachment, you may be more prone to the condition.
9. Diabetes and other medical conditions
Individuals with diabetes or other medical conditions that affect eye health, such as high blood pressure or sickle-cell anemia, are at a higher risk of retinal detachment.
These conditions can cause weakened blood vessels and damage to the retina, increasing the likelihood of detachment.
10. Painless progression
Retinal detachment can progress slowly or rapidly, but it usually happens painlessly. That’s why it’s essential to monitor your eye health and be aware of the red flags mentioned above.
