Retinal Tear or Detachment Warning Signs

You're just living your life and suddenly, something weird happens to your vision.  A bunch of new floaters show up, flashes of light start firing off in your side vision, or a shadow creeps in from the corner of your eye. That’s not normal, and it could be a sign of a retinal tear or retinal detachment.

What Is It?

The retina is like the wallpaper at the back of your eye, and it helps you see clearly. If it gets torn or starts peeling off, your vision can change in a flash. A retinal tear is when there’s a small rip; a detachment is more serious, like the retina pulling away entirely.

What Does It Feel Like?

• Sudden increase in floaters (little dots or squiggles in your vision).
• Flashes of light, like camera flashes in your peripheral vision.
• A shadow or dark curtain creeping across your vision.
• Blurry or wavy vision.

Why Does It Happen?

Most of the time, it’s linked to aging or changes in the jelly inside your eye. But it can also happen from a hard hit to the head or eye, especially in contact sports. People who are very nearsighted or who’ve had eye surgery are also at higher risk.

Should I Be Worried?

Yes, this is an eye emergency. A torn retina can quickly turn into a full detachment, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated fast. The sooner an eye doctor can fix it, the better your chances of keeping your vision.

Call (859) 787-0936 or visit our office, 2020 Eyemax, in Lexington, Kentucky to book an appointment today.