Retinal detachment is a severe ailment that arises once the retina is tugged from its supportive tissues. Since the retina could not properly function under these conditions, lasting vision loss can occur if the detachment is not fixed.
What are the risk factors?
Some individuals are at high risk for retinal detachment such as:
- Nearsighted individuals
- Individuals with a family history of retinal detachment
- Eye injuries
- Those who had intraocular surgery
Always bear in mind that there is no pain or discomfort linked with retinal detachment, but if the individual has any of these symptoms, a doctor should be consulted right away.
It is important to note that retinal detachment might be spontaneous which occurs frequently among the elderly or among nearsighted individuals.
What are the indications?
- Flashes of light
- Floaters in the visual field
- Darkening of the peripheral visual field
Always bear in mind that there is no pain or discomfort linked with retinal detachment, but if the individual has any of these symptoms, a doctor should be consulted right away.
Management of retinal detachment
There are various measures in managing a detached retina. Oftentimes, these measures are combined such as:
- Laser or cryopexy – both approaches are used to fix a retinal tear if detected early
- Pneumatic retinopexy – this approach might be used if the tear is small and easy to close. A small-sized gas bubble is introduced into the vitreous where it elevates and drives counter to the retina to seal the tear. Cryopexy or laser can be used to close the tear.
- Scleral buckle – this approach involves the placement of a silicone strip around the eye to secure the retina in place. This band is not visible and remains permanently affixed. Laser or cryopexy is used to close the tear.
- Vitrectomy – this procedure is utilized to fix bigger tears. The vitreous is taken out from the eye and a gas bubble or silicone oil is applied in the eye.
Prevention
Prompt diagnosis is vital in preventing vision loss linked with retinal detachment. It is essential to have yearly eye check-ups and more often among those who are at higher risk for eye disease.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on retinal detachment is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage this sudden medical emergency by taking a standard first aid course with Toronto First Aid.