Retinal Detachment

"Flashes, Floaters, Curtains"

Retinal detachment is a serious condition where the retina pulls away from its normal position.  The retina is the part of the eye that detects lights to allow you to see.  If the retina pulls away from the eye, this could lead to an emergent situation where vision could be permanently affected.

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Retinal detachment can be caused by many factors. Some of the risk factors are injury to the eye, eye surgeries, certain diseases like diabetes, or high amounts of myopia.  Sometimes people simply have thin retinas and have their retinas tear for no reason at all.  

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Symptoms of a retinal detachment may include one or more of the following:

• Flashes of lights in vision

• Floaters or black spots

• Curtain or veil over vision

It is for this reason, annual dilated eye exams are necessary to ensure the retina is intact and healthy.  If you notice any of the above symptoms, follow up with your eye care professional as soon as possible.

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