Retina:
It is a thin layer of tissue that lines the inner back of the eye. This layer senses light and then converts it into nerve signals that are sent to the brain for visual recognition and vision.
Retinal detachment:
Occurring when the retina is pulled from its normal place (the back of the eye), retinal detachment is a serious problem. It needs to be checked by an ophthalmologist immediately otherwise vision may be lost in that eye.
Causes:
Many reasons lead to retinal detachment, but the most common ones are getting advanced in age and eye injury. With age, the vitreous inside the eye begins to thin and shrink (it is a gel-like substance that fills the middle of the eye), while the eye moves, the vitreous moves around the retina without causing problems, but sometimes the vitreous can stick to the retina and pull hard enough to tear it.
Risk factors:
- Extreme nearsightedness.
- Glaucoma or eye surgery.
- Taking glaucoma medications
- Serious eye injury.
- Diabetic retinopathy.
- Retinal tear or detachment in the other eye
- Family history of retinal detachment.
- The presence of weak areas in the retina, which are discovered during the examination.
Symptoms:
Retinal detachment is considered a medical emergency, so if you notice symptoms, it is important to go to an ophthalmologist or emergency room immediately, as they include:
- Suddenly seeing flashes of bright light.
- Spots, lines, or cobwebs in the field of vision.
- Shadow in side view.
- Seeing a dark shadow or gray curtain that covers part of the field of vision.
- Seeing small dark spots or squiggly lines floating across the field of vision.
Symptoms of retinal detachment often appear quickly, and if the retinal detachment is not treated immediately, a larger portion of the retina can detach; This increases the risk of permanent vision loss or blindness.
Diagnosis:
Drops are placed in the eye to dilate the pupil. Then examine your retina for any changes.
Treatment:
Treatment is by surgery to repair retinal detachment.
Instructions after retinal detachment surgery:
- You may feel some discomfort for a few days to weeks after surgery, as you will be prescribed medications to help you feel better.
- Rest after surgery for a few weeks.
- Wear an eye patch after surgery.
- It is very important to follow your doctor's instructions.
Prevention:
Because retinal detachment often results due to getting advanced in age, there is often no way to prevent it, but the risk of developing it can be reduced:
- Avoid eye injury by wearing goggles or other eye protection when performing risky activities.
- Early detection and treatment of signs and symptoms through comprehensive routine eye exams performed by an ophthalmologist.
- When you feel any of the symptoms of retinal detachment, you should go to the doctor or the emergency room immediately, as early treatment can prevent blindness.