Retinal detachment

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors

When to seek medical advice
Tests and diagnosis
Treatments and drugs
Coping and support

Definition

The retina is the light-sensitive tissue that lies smoothly against the inside back wall of your eye and sends messages to your brain through your optic nerve. Underneath the retina is the choroid — a thin layer of blood vessels that supplies oxygen and nutrients to the retina. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the choroid.

Retinal detachment is a medical emergency, and time is critical. Unless the detached retina is promptly surgically reattached, this condition can cause permanent loss of vision in the affected eye.

The good news is that warning signs often appear before retinal detachment occurs, and early diagnosis and treatment by a specialist trained in eye diseases and conditions (ophthalmologist) can save your vision.

Symptoms