Retinal Detachment

What you should know about Retinal Detachment

Diagnose Retinal Detachment in Edmonton

If you see an increase in flashes of light or floaters in your vision, you should see an eye doctor right away. These are possible symptoms of a serious eye condition called retinal detachment, which can lead to blindness if not treated promptly. At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we can identify retinal detachment and urgently refer for treatment, so contact us today to see an eye doctor at one of our clinics in Edmonton, Leduc, or Westlock.

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What is Retinal Detachment?

Retinal detachment occurs when the thin, light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye (the retina) pulls away from the underlying tissue. The retina contains nerve cells that detect light and send visual signals to the brain. When it detaches, these nerve cells can no longer function properly, leading to blurred vision, shadowed areas, or even permanent blindness if left untreated.

What causes Retinal Detachment?

Retinal detachment can occur for several reasons:

Vitreous Shrinkage – As the gel-like substance (vitreous) inside the eye shrinks with age, it can pull on the retina. If the pulling is too strong, it can cause tears or holes, allowing fluid to seep underneath and separate the retina from its supporting layers.
Eye Trauma – A severe blow to the head or direct injury to the eye can cause the retina to detach.
Inflammation or Disease – Some medical conditions cause fluid to accumulate under the retina, increasing the risk of detachment.
Post-Surgical Changes – Certain eye surgeries, such as cataract removal, can make the retina more vulnerable to detachment.

What are the symptoms of Retinal Detachment?

Retinal detachment is painless, but there are clear warning signs that require immediate medical attention:

Increased Floaters – A sudden increase in tiny specks, cobwebs, or strands floating across your vision.
Flashes of Light – Bright, brief flashes in your peripheral vision, especially in dim lighting.
Shadow or Curtain Over Vision – A dark veil or curtain appearing across part of your vision, which can worsen over time.
Blurred or Distorted Vision – Areas of distorted, blurry, or missing vision that don’t improve with blinking.

Since retinal detachment is a medical emergency, seek urgent care within 24 hours. Call Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. in Edmonton immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. If symptoms are severe and occur outside business hours, visit the Royal Alexandra Hospital’s Eye Institute of Alberta, where ophthalmologists are on call.

Does Seeing Floaters or Flashes Always Mean Retinal Detachment?

Not necessarily. Floaters and flashes of light can also be caused by Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD), a common and typically harmless condition where the vitreous shrinks and pulls away from the retina. However, only an eye doctor can determine if your symptoms are due to PVD or a more serious retinal detachment, so it’s important to schedule an eye exam as soon as possible.

Who is at risk for Retinal Detachment?

While retinal detachment can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk, including:

Being over 40 years old – Most cases occur in middle-aged and older adults.
Severe nearsightedness (myopia) – People with high myopia have longer eyeballs, which stretches the retina and makes detachment more likely.
Previous retinal detachment – If you’ve had retinal detachment in one eye, you’re at higher risk of developing it in the other eye.
Eye trauma or surgery – A history of eye injuries or cataract surgery increases the likelihood of detachment.
Family history – Genetic factors can play a role, especially if close family members have had retinal detachment.

How is Retinal Detachment treated?

If diagnosed early, retinal detachment can often be repaired with surgery. An optometrist in Edmonton at Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. will assess your condition and refer you to a specialized ophthalmologist for treatment. Common surgical procedures include:

Pneumatic Retinopexy – The doctor injects a small gas bubble into the eye, which presses the detached retina back into place. The tear is then sealed with a laser.
Scleral Buckling Surgery – A silicone band is placed around the outside of the eye, pushing the eye’s wall closer to the retina to help it reattach.
Vitrectomy – The vitreous gel inside the eye is removed, and the doctor repairs any tears or holes in the retina. The eye is then filled with a gas or silicone oil to hold the retina in place while it heals.

Can Retinal Detachment Be Prevented?

While retinal detachment cannot always be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

Getting regular eye exams – This allows your optometrist to detect early signs of retinal problems.
Seeking immediate care for floaters or flashes – Early intervention can prevent severe vision loss.
Protecting your eyes from injury – Wear protective eyewear during sports or activities that pose a risk of eye trauma.
Managing underlying conditions – Keep conditions like diabetes and high myopia under control.

When Should You See an Optometrist?

If you experience any sudden changes in vision, including new floaters, persistent flashes of light, or a shadow over your vision, contact Optometrists’ Clinic Inc. in Edmonton immediately. Early detection and prompt treatment are the best ways to protect your vision and prevent permanent vision loss.