If you've suddenly lost side vision, also known as peripheral vision, and you can only see clearly straight ahead, you may be experiencing a retinal detachment. If left untreated, this condition can worsen and eventually lead to complete vision loss. At Epic Vision Eye Centers, we conduct tests to diagnose a range of eye health conditions, including retinal detachment.
How Retinal Detachments Occur
Under normal circumstances, the retina is firmly attached to the eye wall deep inside the eye. However, a small tear or trauma can cause the retina to separate. The presence of fluid can exacerbate this separation, making the detachment more severe. This type of detachment is referred to as rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.
Retinal detachments don't develop gradually; they typically occur due to trauma, sudden impact to the head or body, or some form of shock. The sudden change in pressure can disrupt the seal that holds the retina in place against the eye wall. This risk increases with age, as the vitreous gel, which acts as a kind of glue, becomes thinner over time as the eyes age.
If the separation persists, the gel may eventually liquify, losing its ability to create a seal altogether. Additionally, certain eye conditions, such as myopia, previous eye surgeries, and a family history of retinal detachment, can predispose individuals to this condition.
Identifying a Detachment
Optometrists often suspect the possibility of a retinal detachment based on the symptoms reported by the patient. These symptoms can include seeing tiny spots or specks in one's vision, experiencing flashes of light unrelated to migraines, sudden blurry vision, or the perception of a growing shadow or dark area. Once these symptoms are noted, the optometrist will perform a dilated pupil exam to examine the interior of the eye and confirm the presence of a retinal detachment. Signs of a retinal detachment include the tear itself, visible damage, and fluid leakage, as seen in cases of vitreous hemorrhage.
Treatment
Treatment options vary depending on the extent of the damage. In some cases, an eye doctor may use laser therapy or cryotherapy to treat the tear itself, reattaching the retina to the eye wall. For more extensive tears, full retinal reattachment may be required. This can be achieved through a gas pressure treatment, during which the eye is sealed and immobilized for approximately a week. Alternatively, surgical intervention might be necessary to reconnect the retina, a more complex procedure.
Contact Epic Vision Eye Centers
At Epic Vision Eye Centers, we have a highly experienced team specializing in the treatment of retinal detachment. If you suspect you may be suffering from retinal detachment, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Remember, ignoring a retinal detachment can lead to worsening symptoms over time. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online for prompt evaluation and care.