Common Symptoms of a Detached Retina
Are you noticing more “floaters,” or cobweb-like specks in your field of vision? Are you seeing flashes of light? These are a few symptoms of a retinal detachment, and it is a medical emergency. If not promptly treated, retinal detachment can cause permanent vision loss. If you’re having any symptoms of a retinal detachment, see an eye care professional immediately.
“Early detection of symptoms and seeking care promptly is of great benefit to the patient,” said Dr. Peter A. Nixon.
The retina is a key factor in your normal, healthy vision. This light-sensitive layer of tissue lines the inside of your eye and transmits visual messages through the optic nerve to your brain. When the retina detaches, it is pulled or lifted from its normal position.
Symptoms of a detached retina
You may be surprised to learn that retinal detachment is painless. However, warning signs almost always occur before detachment occurs or as it is progressing. These critical signs include:
- Multiple floaters (tiny specks that seem to drift through your field of vision) suddenly appearing
- Seeing flashes of light in one or both eyes (photopsia)
- Experiencing blurred vision
- Noticing a gradual reduction inside (peripheral) vision
- Seeing a curtain-like shadow over your visual field
“Flashes and floaters can indicate a retinal tear or retinal detachment. The only way to establish the diagnosis is to be examined by your eye doctor,” explains Dr. Nixon. “Early detection of symptoms and prompt evaluation are very important in preventing loss of vision.”
Are you at risk for retinal detachment?
Although retinal detachment can happen at any age, it is more common in Caucasian men over age 40. You have a greater risk for retinal detachment if you:
- Have had a retinal detachment in the other eye
- Have a family history of the condition
- Are extremely nearsighted
- Have undergone cataract surgery
- Have other eye diseases or disorders, such as degenerative myopia, retinoschisis, uveitis or lattice degeneration
- Have had an eye injury
Central Texas’ most trusted care for detached retina and other eye conditions
If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the symptoms of retinal detachment, immediate treatment is vital to saving your vision. If you live in Central Texas, Austin Retina Associates has three locations to serve you: Austin, South Austin and Round Rock.
Should you need retinal surgery in Austin, Texas, rest assured, our board-certified physicians, licensed ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained retinal specialist are ready and able to help. In addition to providing advanced, accurate diagnostics, our experienced and caring physicians are skilled in the latest, minimally-invasive, outpatient surgical techniques. Let our team of experts help you manage diseases of the retina, vitreous and macula so you enjoy the best possible eye health and vision.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 800-252-8259 or use our easy online form.
