RETINAL TEARS &
DETACHMENT
The retina is the part of the eye that is critical for sight. It is a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye that receives light and sends images to the brain. Its central part is called the macula, which is responsible for sharp and defined central vision.
Retinal tears are breaks in the retina caused by vitreous degradation and shrinking, which pulls on the retinal layer. Fluid travels through these openings, causing the retina to separate, resulting in retinal detachment.
Retinal detachment is a serious eye disorder in which the retina separates from the eye’s outer layers. The nerve layer loses function, resulting in vision loss. To avoid irreversible vision loss, retinal detachments must be treated as soon as possible.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES?
Retinal tears and detachments can occur due to a variety of causes. People who are severely short-sighted (have retinal thinning or degeneration), or have a family history of retinal detachment are more prone to retinal tears and detachment.
Retinal detachment can also be caused by severe diabetic retinopathy, or by internal eye inflammation.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
A sudden rise in the quantity of floaters or light flashes are possible symptoms. There may also be a shadow or blurring of vision in a specific area of the visual field. The shadowy or blurry region may move like a curtain to encompass a wider area as the retinal detachment progresses.
However, in many cases, the retinal detachment may go unnoticed until a considerable amount of the retina is affected or it begins to encroach on the macula. When the macula is compromised, one loses central vision and suffers severe vision loss. If there is internal eye haemorrhage as a result of the retinal tear, a sudden loss of vision may also occur.
If these symptoms arise, see an eye specialist right away for a complete examination of the eye and retina.
