Blurry Vision? It Could Be Retinal Detachment
There are a number of eye conditions that can affect vision. Many people have not heard about retinal detachment, nor know what it entails.
What is Retinal Detachment?
Retinal detachment is when the light-sensitive part of the eye -- the retina -- separates from its supporting layers in the eye.
Purpose of the Retina
The retina receives images seen through the eye and transmits them through the optic nerve to the brain. The image the retina receives is in reverse, and the brain corrects it to right-side up. Essentially the retina processes light and imagery the way film in a camera would.
Symptoms of Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment often occurs without any underlying cause, though it can be attributed to eye trauma or a disease like diabetes. When retinal detachment occurs, there would be a tear or hole in the retina into which eye fluids leak. This causes the separation of the transparent tissues of the retina from other tissues.
Minor retinal detachment may cause no symptoms. If the macula, the part of the retina responsible for fine vision, becomes compromised, then central vision can be severely affected. Other symptoms of retinal detachment include:
* blurred vision
* floaters in the eye
* shadow or blindness in one part of the visual field
* bright flashes of light in peripheral vision
An optometrist or opthalmologist will do a series of vision tests during a routine exam. If retinal detachment is suspected, further tests may be conducted. These tests can include:
* Electroretinogram: A record of the electrical currents in the retina.
* Intraocular pressure test: Measures the pressure inside of the eye. This test is usually performed to check for glaucoma.
* Retinal photography: This involves a fluroescein angiography, which uses a special dye and camera to look at blood flow in the retina.
Treatment
Retinal detachment is an urgent problem that requires prompt medical attention. Many detachments can be repaired with surgery in a doctor's office. More extensive procedures may have to be done in an operating room. Vision loss can occur if the reattachment of the retina is unsuccessful or if the macula has been detached.
If a person experiences floaters, bright flashing lights or blurred vision, he or she should make an appointment for an eye exam to rule out retinal detachment. TF115742