Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, the thin light-sensitive layer lining the back of the eye, separates from the tissue beneath it that supplies it with nutrients and oxygen. When this happens, the affected part of the retina can no longer work properly, causing loss of vision in that area. It is a serious, sight-threatening emergency that needs urgent care.

Retinal detachment is relatively uncommon, but it can happen to anyone and becomes more likely with age. People who are very short-sighted, who have had previous eye surgery or a significant eye injury, or who have a family history of detachment are at higher risk. It can affect one eye and, less often, both eyes over time.

The warning signs usually come on suddenly and are painless. They include new flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters such as dark spots or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision, and a dark shadow or curtain spreading across part of your sight. These symptoms are an emergency and need same-day assessment by an eye specialist or emergency eye service.

Most detachments begin with a small tear or hole in the retina that lets fluid build up underneath and lift it away. Ageing changes in the jelly inside the eye are a common trigger. The risk is higher in people who are very short-sighted, have had cataract or other eye surgery, have suffered a serious eye injury, or have a family history of the condition.

Because it is an emergency, retinal detachment is diagnosed quickly by an eye specialist. Drops are used to widen the pupil so the retina can be examined in detail at the back of the eye. If the view is unclear, for example because of bleeding, an ultrasound scan of the eye may be used to confirm whether the retina has detached and how far.

Retinal detachment usually needs prompt treatment, most often surgery, to reattach the retina to the back of the eye and seal any tears. Several surgical approaches exist, and the eye specialist chooses the most suitable one for each case. The sooner the retina is reattached, generally the better the chance of preserving sight, which is why urgent care is so important.

Retinal detachment cannot always be prevented, but the risk and harm can be reduced. Wearing eye protection during sport or risky activities helps avoid injury, and people at higher risk benefit from regular eye checks. Most importantly, knowing the warning signs and seeking same-day eye care for sudden flashes, floaters, or a shadow can prevent a small tear from progressing.