The retina is a crucial part of the human eye, as it is the part that begins processing light into images of the world around us. When the retina detaches, it is usually due to a tear in this layer of the eye. It may occur spontaneously or in response to trauma, and is more likely to happen to people with a family history of retinal detachment or who are especially nearsighted. Having had eye surgery in the past may also contribute to retinal tears and detachment. Several types of symptoms may occur.
"Curtain" or "Shadow" Falling
As the retina falls away from the eye, it is no longer available to process light coming into the eye, so a person will feel as though a shadow or curtain has fallen, obstructing vision. This usually begins at the periphery (sensed as a shadow seen out of the corner of the eye), and as more of the retina detaches it may be seen in the center of vision.
Floaters
This is a term used to describe the dark blobs that may appear in a person's field of vision. They may seem almost as though a small swarm of bugs has suddenly taken up residence in front of the eye, or may be seen off to the side. They may occur because of the vitreous (a jelly-like substance that fills the eyeball) "tugging" on the retina or may be due to small bleeds in the eye. As with the other symptoms of retinal detachment, there is no pain associated with this symptom.
Sudden Loss of Vision in One Eye
This may occur if the entire retina becomes detached, making it impossible to process the light coming into the eye. In such a case, a person may experience complete blindness in the eye.
Light Flashes
These may be experienced as the sensation of strobe lights or a camera flash going off at the side of eye. They are completely painless but indicate that part of the retina has torn away and vitreous has come between the retina and the back wall of the eye.
Symptoms That DO NOT Occur
While the idea of any part of the body becoming "detached" is an alarming one, it is important to note that, unless the retinal detachment occurred because of trauma, it is generally NOT associated with pain, redness, or swelling; also, the detachment is not visible without special examination by an eye doctor.
References
- "CURRENT Medical Diagnosis & Treatment 2010"; Paul Riordan-Eva; 2010
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine"; Anthony S. Fauci et. al.; 2008
- "Vaughan & Asbury's General Ophthalmology"; Paul Riordan-Eva; 2007
- "The Atlas of Emergency Medicine"; Kevin Knoop, M.D. et. al.; 2009
