The signs of Retinal Detachment

 

THE SIGNS OF RETINAL DETACHMENT

 

Retinal detachment can present with glaring signs like complete loss of vision and at the same time can be present without a single symptom and normal vision. The reason is that the retina can detach from its underlying layer either completely or partially. In a partial retinal detachment, if the macula (central retina) is not involved, the vision can be absolutely normal. Patients can sometimes see a shadow in the vision or a field defect if one part of the retina is lifted or detached.

The first sign of a retinal detachment can be sudden appearance of floaters in the vision of one eye. These floaters are black spots floating around which can look like threads or cobwebs. These can be red which indicate a bleed or a tear in the retina. It is possible to see flashes of light before floaters appear. This happens because the vitreous or jelly inside the eye separates from the retina , a condition called posterior vitreous detachment.

This can tear off the retina in one place and cause a retinal detachment. If a person sees a curtain drop in front of his eye, it means the retina has already started detaching and he needs immediate surgery.