Which symptoms indicate a retinal detachment?
July 19, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Tobias Helbig
Dear ophthalmologist,
My name is Selma Strauss and I am reaching out to you because I have noticed some concerning symptoms with my eyes recently. I have been experiencing flashes in my field of vision, which seem to occur on their own, as well as black dots or spots moving in front of my eye. Additionally, I feel like a veil or curtain is covering my field of vision, which does not go away when I blink or rub my eyes.
These symptoms are causing me great concern and I am wondering if they could indicate a retinal detachment. I have read that this is a serious eye condition that can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. I am worried about my vision and would like to know if I should be concerned about my eyes.
Could you please explain to me what symptoms typically indicate a retinal detachment? Are there any other signs I should look out for? And what measures should be taken if a retinal detachment is indeed diagnosed? I would greatly appreciate it if you could provide me with guidance on how to protect my eyes from further damage.
Thank you in advance for your help and expertise.
Sincerely,
Selma Strauss
Dear Mrs. Strauss,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as an ophthalmologist. The symptoms you described, such as flashes in your field of vision, black spots or floaters, and the sensation of a veil or curtain over your field of vision, can indeed be signs of a retinal detachment. It is important to take these symptoms seriously and have them examined by an ophthalmologist in a timely manner to avoid potential complications.
A retinal detachment occurs when the thinner inner layer of the retina detaches from the underlying choroid. This can lead to a sudden loss of peripheral or central vision. In addition to the symptoms you mentioned, a sudden increase in floaters or seeing flashes of light without an external source of light can also be signs of a retinal detachment.
If a retinal detachment is diagnosed, immediate treatment is necessary to minimize the risk of permanent vision loss. Depending on the severity of the detachment, laser treatment or surgery may be necessary to reattach the retina. The earlier the treatment is done, the better the chances of a full recovery.
To protect your eyes from further damage, it is important to have regular eye examinations, especially if you have risk factors for a retinal detachment such as high myopia, eye injury, or a family history of retinal problems. Also, make sure to protect your eyes from UV radiation, maintain a healthy diet, and avoid smoking, as these factors can increase the risk of eye diseases.
I strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist in your area for a thorough examination of your eyes to exclude or treat a possible retinal detachment. Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Tobias Helbig, Ophthalmologist
