The back wall of the eye is sensitive to light and is called the retina. It is a layer of tissue that sends signals via the optic nerve to the brain. The brain converts these signals to an image of what the eye is seeing. When retinal detachment occurs, the retina is pulled away from a layer of blood vessels called the choroid, and the retina can no longer receive the oxygen and nutrients it needs that are normally supplied by the blood vessels. Retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss if it is not treated promptly.
Symptoms
The symptoms of retinal detachment include the sudden appearance of many floaters, small strings, hairs or spots that appear to float in front of the eyes. Sudden flashes of light in one or both eyes are symptoms of retinal detachment. Other symptoms include a sudden blurring of vision and a shadow or curtain that appears to fall over a portion of vision. There is no pain with retinal detachment, so it is important to be aware of the symptoms.
Causes
Retinal detachment can occur because of a trauma. Advanced diabetes and an inflammatory disorder such as cytomegalovirus retinitis or sarcoidosis can also result in retinal detachment. The sagging or shrinking of the substance that fills the eyes, a jelly-like substance, can also cause retinal detachment.
Leak
Retinal detachment can occur when the liquid in the eye flows or leaks through a tear in the retina and accumulates beneath it. Retinal disorders and aging can also cause small holes to appear in the retina, through which the liquid can leak. The liquid can gradually tear away the retina from the underlying blood vessels. Another mechanism is the sagging or shrinkage of the liquid in the eye can cause the retina to pull away from retina.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for retinal detachment include previous retinal detachment, family history of retinal detachment, extreme nearsightedness, previous severe eye injury or trauma and areas on the sides of the eyes that are weak and aging.
Diagnosis
An ophthalmologist can perform an eye exam and observe the retinal detachment directly. This is usually performed via the use of an ophthalmoscope, which uses light and a magnification lens to see into the eye and produce a three-dimensional image. An ultrasound examination can also produce an image of the back of the eye and show the detachment.
