Nearsighted people over age 40 are at increased risk for retinal detachment. Symptoms can be so subtle they go unnoticed, but not treating it could lead to blindness. It occurs when the retina, a light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye, separates from the blood vessels that supply it with blood and oxygen.
“There is no pain associated with a retinal detachment,” says Jessica McCluskey, M.D., an ophthalmologist and retina specialist at Piedmont. “I wish there was. Then more people would probably catch it early when there is a retinal tear. At this stage, it can be treated with a quick laser procedure that welds the edges of the tear together. This can be done in a retinal specialist’s or ophthalmologist’s office during a regular visit.”
Symptoms of retinal detachment
While retinal detachment is a serious condition, it is treatable when caught early. If you have the symptoms, see an ophthalmologist right away:
- Sudden increase in floaters or spots in your vision
- Flashes of light
- A "dark cloud" or "curtain" coming down over vision
Dr. McCluskey also warns that a retinal tear can progress within 24 hours, though it varies from patient to patient. Therefore, anyone experiencing sudden changes of vision should call their ophthalmologist immediately, even during a weekend.
Risk factors for retinal detachment
The following factors increase your risk of retinal detachment:
- Being age 40+
- Nearsightedness (those with a -6 or greater prescription are at higher risk)
- Being a male (slightly higher risk than females)
- Family history of retinal detachment
- An eye injury
- Previous eye surgery, such as cataract surgery
- Advanced diabetes (particularly patients who go years without proper treatment)
- A history of retinal detachment or other eye diseases
Preventing retinal detachment
Dr. McCluskey stresses the importance of regular eye exams. This is a good habit to establish early in life. She says many young, working individuals neglect their eye health and wait until they have problems before seeing an eye doctor.
If you are severely nearsighted, it is important to pay close attention to any vision changes. Dr. McCluskey says one in 20 nearsighted individuals experience a retinal detachment. Nearsighted patients who undergo LASIK eye surgery should continue to see an ophthalmologist for a yearly eye exam, even if their vision has improved. The risk is still there even after laser surgery.
If you have had one retinal tear or detachment, you are at higher risk of another, so yearly follow-ups with a specialist are recommended.
“Everyone really should come in and get their eyes examined yearly while their vision is still good. Don’t wait until you have problems. Detecting weaknesses in the eye early on can help prevent permanent changes or damage,” says Dr. McCluskey.
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