Retinal detachment is a serious condition. It happens when a layer of retinal tissue pulls away from the rest of the tissue around it. When a piece of tissue detaches, it impedes the proper working of the retina. It can also cause permanent vision loss if you do not get treatment right away.
Your retina can tear even before it detaches from the rest of the tissue. When the retina tears, it has the same symptoms as retinal detachment. So if you are keen to note the signs, you will do so before it detaches. When the retina tears, fluid inside the eye leaks underneath and separates the retina from the underlying tissue. It is what causes the retinal detachment.
Here are some signs to look out for to prevent tears from getting to the detachment stage.
Floaters are little spots, lines, or specks you may notice in your field of vision. They are almost like bits of dust on a camera lens. Even if you try to blink them away, they do not go away. When you shift your look to something else, they are still there.
Eye floaters result from the shrinking of the gel-like fluid in your eye. As the gel shrinks, it solidifies and drifts within the vitreous. The floaters pass in front of the retina, allowing you to see them. When you see them, note they are an early warning sign of vitreous shrinkage. Over time, the floaters can increase, and it can cause the retina to detach.
Flashes are bright spots of light in your field of vision. Like floaters, they can develop when the gel-like fluid in your eye begins to shrink. They are most common when the shrinking of the gel begins to pull on the retina. They happen more often when you are in a dark room or the first thing in the morning.
Sometimes, flashes may happen to people with migraines. In these cases, they are not as serious as when they occur because of retinal tears or detachment. They may also look different from the flashes you see because of retinal detachment.
Blurry vision is always a reason for concern and should prompt you to seek medical advice. It can be a sign of refractive error. However, it is important to note that refractive errors like myopia make you prone to retinal detachment. Regular eye exams will help you detect retinal detachment early. The doctor can also take measures to slow down its progression and treat it before it worsens.
Sometimes, you may have a sudden loss of side vision or a darkening of your peripheral vision. It falls like a veil or curtain and progressively leads to vision loss. It is, therefore, important to see your doctor immediately after you notice this symptom. It signifies the beginning of retinal detachment. The sooner you get help, the faster the doctor can address the problem. It may save you from totally losing your vision.
For more information on the warning signs of retinal detachment, visit Today’s Vision at our office in Laguna Niguel, California. You can also call (949) 518-0055 to book an appointment today