If you notice detached retina symptoms, it is vital that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. A detached retina can lead to serious eye sight loss as well as blindness. There are symptoms that can appear before the actual detachment as well as other symptoms that indicate the condition has already formed.
Symptoms that Appear Before Retina Detachment
Many retinal detachments are preceded by what is called a posterior vitreous detachment. When we are born, the vitreous humor is attached to the retina. As our bodies grow and develop, it shrinks and forms pockets of liquid. If the vitreous humor detaches completely, the patient will notice flashes of light in the peripheral vision. This may be accompanied by a ring of floaters or hair in the field of vision as well as a significant increase in the number of “floaters” the patient sees. Not all posterior vitreous detachments lead to a detached retina.
Detached Retina Symptoms
Detached retina symptoms often start after a posterior vitreous detachment. Common symptoms include a thick shadow that stretches from the peripheral vision into the center. This, along with central loss of vision, can be very unsettling. The patient may also feel as though a curtain had been dropped over everything they see. Lines that once appeared straight may begin to bend.
Are You Experiencing Detached Retina Symptoms?
An appointment should be made with an eye doctor or visit the emergency room the moment you notice the first detached retina symptoms. It is possible that the problem could actually be something else, but either way loss of vision is a serious problem that should be examined right away. Not only does this indicate a problem, it can also hinder your ability to function independently at normal levels. Once diagnosed, a physician can determine the best course of action to heal the retina. This is generally done by locating breaks in the retina and sealing them off to prevent further damage.