One of the most concerning is retinal detachment, a condition that can result in permanent vision loss without treatment. This sight-threatening problem affects one in every 300 individuals at some point in their lives. Timely action can often address this condition, but for that, you need to recognize the early warning signs.
The retina is a delicate tissue layer at the back of the eye containing light-sensitive cells. Essentially, it’s responsible for capturing images and transmitting them to the brain. Comprising ten distinct layers and a network of specialized cells, it’s primarily composed of rods and cones. The retina is anchored to the rear of the eye by the retinal pigment epithelium, which also serves as a filter and support system for the rods and cones.
Retinal detachment is precisely as it sounds: the retina becomes detached from the back of the eye. In most instances, this occurs when a hole forms in the retina, allowing fluid from the eye to accumulate between its layers, pushing it away from the back of the eye. Trauma, infection, or complications from eye surgery can also lead to detachment. This is a severe medical concern requiring prompt attention. Without treatment, it can result in permanent vision loss.
Certain individuals face a higher risk of retinal detachment. Age is the most significant factor as the fluids in our eyes shrink over time and can create a tiny tear in the retina. Other risk factors include a previous history of retinal detachment, extreme nearsightedness, Marfan’s syndrome, cataract removal (especially when lens replacement wasn’t included), and sports-related injuries. The most frequent culprits of the latter are contact sports or activities like paintball.
While pain typically signals something is wrong in the body, retinal detachment is often painless. Keep an eye out for these symptoms and promptly consult an eye doctor if you experience any (but especially if you notice more than one):
Regular visits to an eye doctor serve not only to update your eyeglass prescription but also to detect eye issues in their early, most treatable stages. This is especially crucial for identifying retinal detachment. Until your next appointment, take good care of your eyes by maintaining a healthy diet, staying active, and wearing protective eyewear along with UV-blocking sunglasses.
Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.