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Comprised of light-sensitive nerve cells, the retina is located in the back of the eye and is essential for vision. Retinal detachment occurs when this tissue peels away from its supporting structures. While this can occur gradually, it’s considered an emergency when symptoms arise because it can result in permanent vision loss. To help you seek prompt treatment, here’s all you need to know about this condition.

What Causes Retinal Detachment?

This disorder is especially common in people over 50. Other risk factors include extreme nearsightedness, previous eye surgeries, a family history of the condition, and lattice degeneration. 

Small tears in the retina due to advanced age can cause it to detach. This is known as rhegmatogenous, and it’s the most common form of detachment. 

retinaWhen scar tissue grows on the retina’s surface, pulling it away from the back of the eye, the condition is called tractional detachment. This is usually a result of complications due to medical conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes.

Exudative detachment, on the other hand, occurs when fluid accumulates behind the retina due to injury, inflammation, or age-related macular degeneration

What Are the Treatments for Retinal Detachment?

Treatment is most effective within days of the diagnosis, so if you notice eye floaters, blurred vision, or shadows in your line of sight, visit an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.

Surgery is almost always necessary to address retinal detachment. There are a few simple outpatient procedures that can repair tears, holes, or partial detachment. The two most popular approaches are photocoagulation and cryopexy. The former involves precise laser beams, while the latter uses a freezing probe. Both procedures aim to create new scar tissue that will secure the retina against the tissue wall once more.

 

If you’re concerned about changes in your vision, turn to Tri-State Eye. Serving the Tri-State Area, including Middletown, PA, and Milford, CT, this ophthalmology practice is equipped to treat a range of conditions that affect the retina. Founded in 1993, they’ve maintained state-of-the-art facilities with only the most advanced equipment. Visit their website to learn more about retinal detachment, or call (845) 703-2020 to schedule an appointment. 

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