Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that, if not treated in time, can lead to permanent vision loss. It occurs when the retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye responsible for capturing light and sending signals to the brain, separates from its normal position. This problem interferes with the proper functioning of the eye, significantly affecting visual ability.
In this sense, early detection and immediate treatment are essential to prevent irreversible complications. However, many people are unaware of the initial symptoms and, by not seeking medical help in time, increase the risk of permanent damage.
This article aims to explain what retinal detachment is, identify its causes and symptoms, detail the available treatments and highlight the importance of aftercare. Consequently, with this information, we seek to help people act in time in the face of this condition.
Retinal detachment: Causes and types
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the layer of tissue that nourishes it. This can be due to several factors, such as a retinal tear or hole, abnormal tissue growth inside the eye, or fluid buildup that pushes the retina outward.
Common causes include severe myopia, eye trauma, previous surgeries, inflammatory diseases, and natural aging. In addition, people with a family history of retinal detachment or those who have suffered a retinal tear are at higher risk of developing it.
Types of retinal detachment
There are three main types of retinal detachment: rhegmatogenous, tractional, and exudative detachment, each with specific causes and characteristics.
- Rhegmatogenous detachment: This is the most common type of retinal detachment and occurs due to a tear or break in the retina. Through this tear, vitreous humor (the gel that fills the inside of the eye) can leak under the retina, separating it from the underlying layers that nourish it. The main causes include aging, as the vitreous can shrink and pull on the retina, causing a tear.
- Tractional detachment: This type occurs when scar tissue or abnormal membranes in the vitreous pull the retina away from the eye wall. It is most common in people with conditions such as proliferative diabetic retinopathy, where the growth of abnormal blood vessels causes scarring that exerts traction. Symptoms usually develop more gradually and, although less common than rhegmatogenous, advanced cases may require surgery.
- Exudative detachment: In this case, the separation of the retina is not caused by a tear or traction, but by the accumulation of fluid under the retina. This build-up can be due to eye inflammation, tumors, vascular disorders, or diseases such as central serous chorioretinopathy. Symptoms can vary, but often include blurred vision and loss of central or peripheral vision.
How to recognize retinal detachment?
As we have seen, retinal detachment often initially manifests itself with subtle symptoms that may go unnoticed. One of the most common signs is the appearance of flashes of light in the visual field, even in dark environments. These flashes indicate that the retina is being pulled, which may precede a tear or detachment.
Another common symptom is the perception of “floaters,” which are small dots or spots that appear to move in the field of vision. Although these spots may be harmless in some cases, a sudden increase in their number or size could be a sign of a bigger problem.
Partial loss of vision, such as a shadow or curtain covering part of the visual field, is an advanced sign of detachment. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately to avoid irreversible complications.
Treatments for retinal detachment
Treatment for retinal detachment depends on the severity and type of detachment. In mild or early cases, laser photocoagulation can be used, which seals the tears in the retina and prevents their progression. Cryotherapy, which uses extreme cold to repair the affected tissue, is also used.
When the detachment is more advanced, surgical methods are necessary. Vitrectomy, which involves removing the vitreous humor and replacing it with gas or oil to reposition the retina, is a common technique. Another common option is scleral buckle, a procedure that uses a silicone band to hold the retina in place.
Advances in medical technology have greatly improved the results of these interventions, increasing success rates and reducing complications. In any case, it is essential to follow the ophthalmologist’s recommendations to choose the most appropriate treatment.
The importance of rest and postoperative care
The success of retinal detachment treatment depends not only on the surgery, but also on rest and aftercare. During recovery, it is common for the doctor to tell you to maintain a specific posture to promote healing, especially if gas or oil was used in the operation. In these cases, the use of a retinal detachment chair is essential, which has facial and thoracic support and an adjustable seat.
On the other hand, it is advisable to avoid physical effort and sudden movements in the first weeks after surgery. These activities can put pressure on the eye and compromise the result of the treatment. It is also important to follow the instructions on the use of eye drops and to attend medical check-ups on time.
Adequate rest not only allows for a faster recovery, but also reduces the risk of complications, such as infections or new detachments. In general, adopting these measures guarantees a better quality of life and protects vision in the long term.