Overview
The retina is a thin layer of light-sensing tissue lining the back of the eye. If fluid gets behind it, usually through a tear, it peels away from its blood supply and the cells begin to die. Vision is lost in the corresponding part of the field.
Detachment is painless, which is what makes it dangerous. Almost everyone who ends up with one has had warning signs — new floaters, flashes — for hours or days beforehand. Acting on those is what preserves vision.
What are the common symptoms?
- A sudden shower of new floaters, often described as soot or cobwebs
- Flashes of light, especially in peripheral vision
- A dark curtain or shadow moving in from one side or from below
- A sudden drop in vision
- No pain whatsoever
What causes it, and who is at risk?
- Posterior vitreous detachment, where the gel inside the eye pulls away and tears the retina
- High myopia — significantly elevated risk
- Previous cataract surgery
- Eye injury
- Family or personal history of detachment
- Advanced diabetic retinopathy, and some inherited retinal conditions
How is it treated?
Surgery, and soon. A detachment that has not yet reached the macula has a far better visual outcome than one that has, which is why the timing of presentation dominates the result.
- Laser or cryotherapy to seal a tear before it detaches
- Pneumatic retinopexy, a gas bubble to push the retina back
- Scleral buckle
- Vitrectomy, often with gas or silicone oil, sometimes with face-down positioning afterwards
When to get seen quickly
This is an emergency. New floaters, flashes, or a shadow across your vision mean you should be examined the same day — not next week. Do not wait to see if it settles.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Only an eye care professional who has examined you can tell you what is actually going on.