What are the main symptoms of retinal detachment?

In this article below, highly esteemed consultant optometrist, Dr Shakeel Puri, details what might happen if retinal detachment is left untreated, and what is involved in the recovery time following retinal detachment surgery.

What are the main symptoms of retinal detachment?

There are many symptoms associated with retinal detachment. The main ones are as follows:

• Sudden appearance of floaters (tiny specks that drift through your field of vision)
• Flashes of light in one or both eyes
• Blurred vision
• Gradual reduction in peripheral (side) vision
• A shadow or curtain over a part of your visual field

Can a retinal detachment cause permanent vision loss?

Untreated retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss and blindness in the affected eye. The longer the retina remains detached, the lower the chances of restoring normal vision even with treatment.

What are the main treatment options for a retinal detachment?

It is essential to treat retinal detachment as soon as possible to avoid the possibility of losing vision. The main treatment options for the condition include:

1. Laser surgery (Photocoagulation): Laser is used to create tiny burns around the retinal tear, causing scarring that seals the retina to the underlying tissue.
2. Cryopexy: A freezing probe is applied to the outer surface of the eye to freeze around the retinal tear, which causes a scar that helps reattach the retina.
3. Pneumatic retinopexy: A gas bubble is injected into the eye. The bubble presses the retina back into place. Laser or cryopexy is then used to seal the tear.
4. Scleral buckling: A silicone band (buckle) is sewn onto the sclera (white part of the eye), pushing the eye wall up to the detached retina.
5. Vitrectomy: The vitreous gel is removed and replaced with a gas bubble, silicone oil, or saline to flatten the retina.

What is recovery from retinal detachment surgery like?

Recovery time can vary based on the type of surgery and the patient's individual condition. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months for full recovery. Vision may gradually improve over this period, but complete recovery may take longer, and some vision loss might be permanent.

Can I prevent retinal detachment from happening?

While you can't always prevent retinal detachment, you can reduce your risk by:

• Regular eye exams, especially if you are at higher risk (e.g., family history of retinal detachment, high myopia, previous eye surgery).
• Protecting your eyes from injury by wearing protective eyewear during sports or hazardous activities.
• Managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, which can increase the risk of retinal problems.
• Seeking immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of retinal detachment.

If you’d like to make an appointment with Mr Shakeel Puri, visit his Top Doctors profile today.