Are You at Risk for Retinal Detachment?
Submitted by Elman Retina Group on February 2, 2019
Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that occurs when the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye that is responsible for transmitting information to the brain) is pulled or lifted from its normal position. If not treated promptly (i.e., if the retina is not reattached), it can result in permanent vision loss.
At Elman Retina Group, our trusted ophthalmologist, Dr. Michael J. Elman, has over 30 years of experience diagnosing and treating retinal conditions, including retinal detachment. Here, he discusses common risk factors and symptoms of the condition.
Who Is At Risk?
Retinal detachment is more common among men than women, and individuals over age 40. Diabetics have an increased risk of vision problems, including diabetic retinopathy, a disease caused by high sugar levels damaging the blood vessels in the retina. Advanced stages of diabetic retinopathy can create scar tissue that pulls the retina away or detaches it from the back of the eye. While there is no cure for diabetic retinopathy, early treatment can help delay or even reverse progression of the disease and its effects.
In addition, individuals with weak or very thin retinal tissue have an increased risk of retinal detachment. This includes individuals who are very nearsighted, have a serious eye injury and have undergone previous cataract or glaucoma surgery. Individuals who have had retinal detachment in the other eye or a family history of retinal problems also have an increased risk and should have dilated eye exams regularly.
Symptoms of Retinal Detachment
Because prompt treatment is key in saving vision from retinal detachment, it is important to be aware of the warning signs. Common symptoms of retinal detachment include:
- Blurred vision
- Increased number of eye floaters across field of vision
- Light flashes
- Curtain-like shadow in field of vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
These symptoms don’t always signify retinal detachment. Only a board-certified eye doctor can examine the inner structures of the eye and diagnose the condition. Because retinal detachment is a serious, vision-threatening condition, it should be treated by a retinal specialist with specialized training and experience in the latest and most advanced treatment options.
Trust Your Vision to Elman Retina Group
At Elman Retina Group, our retinal specialist is committed to helping you enjoy strong, healthy vision. To learn more about retinal detachment, or to schedule an eye exam, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Elman. Contact us by calling (410) 686-3000 today.
