|
The retina is a thin, transparent layer of tissue that covers the back wall of the eye. It acts like film in a camera, receiving an image from the lens and forming a visual picture.
A detached retina occurs when the retina rips or separates from the inside wall of the eye. This can occur from an eye injury or by fluid movement in the eye. Fluid movement can pull the retina or fluid can collect between the retina and the underlying tissue and push it away. A detachment may quickly lead to total loss of vision in that eye and is usually painless. OTHER CONDITIONS THAT CAN CAUSE A DETACHED RETINA INCLUDE: - ageing
- diabetes
- tumours in the eye or
- severe eye inflammation
A DETACHED RETINA IS USUALLY INDICATED BY SUDDEN VISION CHANGES SUCH - flashes of light
- rainbows or halos around lights
- irregular floating shapes
- blurry vision and
- partial side or full loss of vision in one eye
Early detection of a retinal tear or detachment is important. Pay close attention to changes in your vision. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see an eye specialist (an ophthalmologist) IMMEDIATELY. A retinal tear and detachment is a medical emergency if vision is to be saved. The longer the retina remains detached, the greater the chances that partial or total blindness will result in the eye with the detached retina. Most retinal detachments can be repaired, with good results, if treated early. Surgery involves securing the retina in place and is the only treatment for either a retinal tear or a retinal hole. The surgical procedure for a retinal tear or hole creates a scar that holds the retina to the tissue behind it. The two procedures to create scarring are photocoagulation and cryopexy. Photocoagulation uses a laser to cause scarring, while cryopexy uses a freezing probe. In addition to the surgery for retinal detachment, silicon oil or a bubble of gas can be injected into the jelly like fluid of the eye. Gas expands and presses the retina against its support network. This is needed for the retina to be able to function properly. TO MINIMISE YOUR CHANCES OF DEVELOPING A DETACHED RETINA: - wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from being hit by objects
- get routine eye exams by an ophthalmologist
THE RISK FOR DEVELOPING A DETACHED RETINA IS GREATER IN PEOPLE WHO: - have a family history of detached retinas
- have recently had eye surgery or
- are diabetic
It is not always possible to prevent a retinal hole, tear, or even a detachment. It is possible to prevent blindness from a detachment by seeing an eye specialist immediately when symptoms start. Article #4521 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
