Understanding Retinal Detachment: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Originally published by Retina Group of Florida
Retinal detachment is considered an emergency situation. The condition occurs when the retina (a thin layer of tissue in the back of the eye) pulls away from its normal position. Retinal detachment separates the retinal cells from the blood vessels that nourish the eye and supply it with oxygen. If not promptly treated, retinal detachment can cause permanent vision loss.
Retinal Detachment Causes
There are three types of retinal detachments with various causes, including:
Rhegmatogenous
Rhegmatogenous is the most common type of retinal detachment. As you age, the gel-like material in your eye, known as the vitreous, can separate from the retina's surface. While this usually occurs without complications, sometimes, the vitreous can tug on the retina with enough force to cause a tear that allows fluid to pass through and collect underneath it. If not treated, it can lead to retinal detachment.
Tractional
Tractional detachment occurs when scar tissue forms on the retina, causing it to pull away from the back of the eye. This type of detachment is usually seen in patients with poorly controlled diabetes or other health conditions.
Exudative
Exudative detachment occurs when fluid accumulates beneath the retina but doesn't cause a hole or tear. Causes of exudative detachment include:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Eye injury
- Tumors
- Inflammatory disorders
Retinal Detachment Risk Factors
Risk factors for retinal detachment include:
- Age: Most adults who develop retinal detachment are over the age of 50.
- Family history: You’re at a higher risk of developing retinal detachment if you have a family history of the condition.
- Previous eye conditions: If you have a history of retinal conditions like retinoschisis, uveitis, or thinning of the peripheral retina (lattice degeneration), you’re at a higher risk for retinal detachment.
- Previous eye surgery or injury: A previous eye surgery, like cataract removal, or an eye injury, can put you at risk for retinal detachment.
- Extreme nearsightedness: Also known as myopia, extreme nearsightedness is a risk factor for developing retinal detachment.
- Previous retinal detachment: If you had a previous retinal detachment in one eye, you’re at a higher risk of developing the condition again.
Retinal Detachment Symptoms
Since retinal detachments are considered medical emergencies, you want to see a retina specialist immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- The sudden appearance of floaters, which are specks that drift through your field of vision
- Flashes of light in one or both eyes
- Blurred vision
- Gradually reduced peripheral vision
- A curtain-like shadow over your field of vision
Retinal Detachment Treatment Options
The treatment for retinal detachment depends on its severity and type. A retina specialist may use photocoagulation, a laser therapy, to shrink or destroy abnormal structures in the retina. If a larger part of your retina is detached, a scleral buckle or vitrectomy may be needed to reposition it.
A scleral buckle procedure involves securing a thin band of silicone around the sclera, the white part of your eye. Buckles are placed to create a dimple. The procedure moves the tissues in the eye closer together and releases fluid under the retina, causing it to reattach. A vitrectomy is an eye surgery that removes the vitreous fluid from your eyeball. Removing the gel eliminates the traction between the gel and the retina.
Learn More From an Expert Retinal Team
Early intervention is crucial when it comes to retinal detachments and preventing permanent vision loss. At the Retina Group of Florida, our expert retina specialists can effectively diagnose and treat retinal detachments. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.