Retinal Detachment

A retinal detachment is a separation of the retina (which is the nerve cell layer) from the outer layers of the eye. The detachment might be small and not dangerous or it could involve the entire retina resulting in blindness if not treated quickly and properly.

The typical signs and symptoms for a retinal detachment are as follows:

• "Flashes and floaters". The sudden awareness of bright light spots or streaks and dark moving specks are due to the vitreous traction on the retinal (light flashes) and solid vitreous material or blood (floaters). Note that flashes and floaters can also commonly occur from simple causes, without retinal tears or detachment.
• Partial loss of vision. Retinal detachments can also proceed unnoticed until a large section of the retina is detached, at which time you may notice that part of your sight is missing (the missing sight could be vision loss from above, below or off to one side). It is sometimes described as a veil, curtain or shade covering a part of the vision.

• Nearsighted people are more prone to the possibility of retinal detachment due to the thinning of the retina sometimes found in myopic eyes.
• Head injuries may cause a detachment, for example, those caused by boxing.
• A family history of retinal detachment.
• Scarring within the eye (especially in the case of diabetic retinopathy) can also lead to a detachment.
• Diabetes and chronic high stress can contribute to a retinal detachment, as well as other eye conditions.

Once the retina has actually detached, it must be surgically reattached. Only a thorough examination of the eye can determine whether you have a detachment or not. In the event you have symptoms that lead you to believe you may have a retinal attachment, you must seek immediate attention from an ophthalmologist. In the meantime, you should do the following:

• Lie down very quietly and stay in this position. This occasionally allows the retina to fall into place
• Do not make any sudden moves – either with your head or eyes. Try to stay relaxed until you can see an ophthalmologist.

Self Help:

Since we consider most eye conditions to be a reflection of the health of the whole body, lifestyle choices and diet can play a major factor in getting and maintaining good vision. Below are some recommendations: