A detached retina can become a serious problem and is considered a medical emergency. The retina forms a layer of tissue found inside the eye. In a healthy eye, light is projected onto the retina so it can be processed for sight. When the retina becomes detached, it actually peels away from its layer of support tissue. Initially, this may only be in an isolated area of the retina. However, if it is not treated quickly, the whole thing may detach.
3 Types of Detached Retina
There are three categories of detached retina. The first is the Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. This happens when a break forms in the retina. As the retina atrophies, gaps begin to form. These are considered holes, tears, or dialyses. The second type of detached retina is the Exudative or secondary retinal detachment. These occur when swelling or injury is present. Fluid builds up under the retina. The third type is the Tractional retinal detachment. This is also caused by injury or swelling which pulls the fibrovascular tissue.
Symptoms of a Retinal Detachment
Some symptoms of retinal detachment are very obvious. Before the actual detachment happens, there will be a few telltale signs. The patient may notice strange flashes of light in the peripheral vision. These are quick, but very extreme. There will also be a significant increase in the number of visible “floaters.” Rings of floaters or hairs can appear as well. The eye may suddenly feel heavy. These symptoms are actually caused by a posterior vitreous detachment, which does not always turn into a retinal detachment. They should still be evaluated by a physician as soon as possible
If a detached retina occurs, the patient will notice other symptoms appear. A shadow will appear in the peripheral vision and make its way to the center of vision. The patient will feel as though there was a curtain covering their vision as well. Straight lines may suddenly seem to curve and there will be central vision loss.
Treating a Detached Retina
A medical professional can help correct a detached retina problem. This is done three basic ways: by locating all breaks in the retina, sealing them, and relieving current and future traction. A detached retina is a serious problem that should be addressed right away.