The retina is a thin, light-sensitive layer lining the back of your eye. It plays a vital role by capturing incoming light and sending images to your brain, allowing you to see clearly. However, sometimes the retina can develop a small break called a retinal tear, which, if left untreated, may lead to serious vision problems.
What Causes Retinal Tears and Detachments?
Retinal tears happen when the vitreous—the clear, gel-like substance filling your eye—pulls or tugs too hard on the retina. At birth, the vitreous is firmly attached to the retina, but as we age, it slowly shrinks and separates in a process known as posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). Most of the time, this occurs without any problems.
However, if the vitreous detaches too quickly or unevenly, it can cause a tear in the retina. Some individuals have a “stickier” vitreous, which increases the chance of tearing.
Besides aging, common causes and risk factors of retinal tears include:
- Eye trauma or injury, especially blunt force trauma
- Severe nearsightedness (myopia)
- Diabetes
- Family or personal history of retinal tears or detachment
- Retinal degeneration or inflammatory disorders
- Certain cancers and autoimmune diseases
- Sickle cell disease
- Retinopathy of prematurity
- Previous eye surgeries
If you have any of these risk factors, regular eye exams are essential.
What Are the Symptoms of Retinal Tears?
You might experience one or more of the following:
- Flashes of light in your vision
- Sudden increase in floaters—tiny specks or strands drifting across your sight
- Shadows or a dark curtain appearing in your peripheral vision
- Blurred or distorted vision
Sometimes, retinal tears cause no symptoms at all, which is why regular eye checkups are important.
How Are Retinal Tears Treated?
Most retinal tears require prompt treatment to prevent progression to retinal detachment, which can cause permanent vision loss.
The two main treatment methods are:
- Laser photocoagulation: Using a laser to create small burns around the tear to seal it firmly.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the area around the tear to form a scar that holds the retina in place.
Both procedures are safe, effective, and usually done in outpatient settings.
In minor cases without symptoms, your eye doctor might monitor the tear closely without immediate treatment.
After Retinal Tear Surgery or Treatment
After treatment, your optometrist will schedule follow-up exams to monitor your retina’s health. If you notice any new vision changes or symptoms, inform your eye care provider immediately.
If you are experiencing symptoms or have risk factors for retinal tears, don’t wait to get checked at a trusted eye clinic in Cranston or nearby.
Why Choose The Eyes on Group for Your Vision Care?
At The Eyes on Group, with locations in Lincoln, Cranston, Worcester, and Randolph, we provide comprehensive vision care with advanced technology and personalized treatment plans. Our experienced specialists will help you maintain healthy eyes and prevent vision loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do retinal detachment and glaucoma both cause vision loss?
A: Yes. Glaucoma damages the optic nerve due to high pressure inside the eye, leading to vision loss. Retinal detachment involves the retina separating from the back of the eye. Both require urgent treatment.
Is retinal detachment the same as diabetic retinopathy?
No. Diabetic retinopathy occurs when high blood sugar damages small blood vessels in the retina, causing swelling, bleeding, and scar tissue. Retinal detachment is a physical separation of the retina. Both can cause vision loss but have different causes and treatments.
Schedule Your Retinal Exam Today
Don’t ignore any symptoms or risk factors related to retinal tears. To protect your vision, schedule an appointment with The Eyes on Group’s trusted specialists at our eye clinic in Cranston or any of our convenient locations today.