The retina lines the inside of the back chamber of your eye. This tissue is made of cells that transmit visual information to your optic nerve, then to the brain. If the retina detaches from the back of your eye, this will cause a sudden loss of vision that require immediate medical treatment. Even though vitamins cannot treat a detachment, certain nutrients, such as vitamin A, may help to prevent the condition.
Causes
A retinal detachment may result from an injury to your eye. These types of injuries may range from an invasive puncture wound to a ball hitting your eye. Retinal detachments may also occur as a result of aging and deterioration of the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the back of the eye. As the vitreous ages, it may shrink, tearing the retina as it pulls away from the retinal tissue. This tear could lead to a detachment.
Treatment
A retinal detachment requires surgical repair in order to prevent permanent vision loss. Vitamin A cannot treat a detachment, nor can it restore lost vision from a detached retina. If treated promptly, surgical repair will often restore vision lost when the detachment occurs.
Prevention
Even though vitamin A cannot treat a detachment, this nutrient may help to strengthen the retina and help could help to prevent a retinal tear and detachment. Certain people have a high risk for this condition. Factors include age, family history, previous detachment or having severe nearsightedness. Previous eye surgeries, such as cataract surgery, may also increase your risk. If you have any of these risk factors, you should discuss the possible benefits of vitamin A with your eye doctor or health care provider.
Dietary Sources
A number of foods contain vitamin A. Protein sources include beef liver and chicken liver. Milk, cheddar cheese and egg substitutes provide vitamin A, as well. Many vegetables contain significant amounts of vitamin A, such as carrots, spinach, peas, red peppers and kale. Fruits like mango, cantaloupe, apricots, peaches and papaya also offer beneficial amounts of this nutrient.
Considerations
Talk with your health-care provider before you make changes to your diet or the supplements you use. You and your doctor should discuss your medications, supplements and health conditions. Your doctor will evaluate all of these factors to determine if increasing your vitamin A intake is the best choice for your overall health and for the prevention of a retinal detachment.
