RETINAL DETACHMENT SYMPTOMS

FLOATERS - These semi-transparent specks typically become noticeable when they fall within your line of sight. Almost everyone sees a few annoying floaters at one time or other. These translucent specks occur in various shapes and sizes. Since they are within they eye, they move as our eye moves and seem to dart away as we look at them. These specks may be caused by protein, white blood cells, lymphocytes, blood, cholesterol, or calcium salts, just to name a few.

Floaters are most commonly caused by the NATURAL AGING CHANGES OF THE EYE FLUIDS; however, size or frequency, if they don't move as you look at them, or if they are accompanied by sudden flashes of light, CONTACT OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELY and report your symptoms exactly as experienced.

LIGHT FLASHES - Symptoms of bright lights are typically caused by a normal aging change that takes place in most eyes. In some cases, however, it may indicate potential retinal problems. It is very important to pay close attention in the frequency and duration of their occurrence. Our eyes are filled with transparent gel called vitreous. The vitreous fills the back portion of the eye. It gives the eye its shape and holds the delicate retina in place. NATURAL AND EXPECTED AGING CHANGES of the eye allows for some shrinkage of the vitreous, thus giving less holding support on parts of the retina. With less pressure holding it in place, a portion of the retina may occasionally flutter or vibrate. When a portion of the retina moves and as the vitreous pulls away from the retina, it triggers the visual sensation of a light flash. You may notice that this symptom occurs especially if you move suddenly, bend over, or get up quickly from sitting or lying down. Most often, flashes occur in the periphery, or "edges", of your vision... not in the center or "straight ahead" area. No pain or discomfort would be felt. If, however, the retina moves too much, there is a possible risk of retinal damage. If the frequency and/or duration of light flash's increase CALL OUR OFFICE WITHOUT DELAY!

What are the different types of retinal detachment?

There are three different types of retinal detachment:

Rhegmatogenous [reg-ma-TAH-jenous] -- A tear or break in the retina allows fluid to get under the retina and separate it from the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), the pigmented cell layer that nourishes the retina. These types of retinal detachments are the most common.

Tractional -- In this type of detachment, scar tissue on the retina's surface contracts and causes the retina to separate from the RPE. This type of detachment is less common.

Exudative -- Frequently caused by retinal diseases, including inflammatory disorders and injury/trauma to the eye. In this type, fluid leaks into the area underneath the retina, but there are no tears or breaks in the retina.

Who is at risk for retinal detachment?

A retinal detachment can occur at any age, but it is more common in people over age 40. It affects men more than women, and Whites more than African Americans.

A retinal detachment is also more likely to occur in people who:

• Are extremely nearsighted
• Have had a retinal detachment in the other eye
• Have a family history of retinal detachment
• Have had cataract surgery
• Have other eye diseases or disorders, such as retinoschisis, uveitis, degenerative myopia, or lattice degeneration
• Have had an eye injury

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