Retinal Detachment

Retinal Detachment

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and support available

Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that occurs when the retina pulls away from the back of the eye. The retina is responsible for sensing light and sending visual signals to the brain, so when it becomes detached, vision can be affected quickly. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is essential to help prevent permanent vision loss.

What is retinal detachment?

The retina is a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye that plays a vital role in vision. Retinal detachment happens when this layer becomes separated from the blood vessels that supply it with oxygen and nutrients. Without treatment, the affected part of the retina cannot function properly, which can lead to lasting damage to your sight.

Retinal detachment can happen suddenly and usually only affects one eye at a time.

Symptoms of retinal detachment

Symptoms often come on quickly and may include:

Sudden appearance of floaters (small shapes or spots drifting in your vision)
Flashes of light in one or both eyes
A shadow or “curtain” moving across your field of vision
Blurred or distorted vision
Sudden loss of vision in part of the eye

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek urgent medical attention.

What causes retinal detachment?

Retinal detachment can occur for several reasons. The most common cause is a tear or hole in the retina, which allows fluid to pass underneath and separate it from the back of the eye.

Factors that may increase your risk include:

Ageing (more common over 50)
Severe short-sightedness (myopia)
Previous eye injuries or surgery
A history of retinal detachment in the other eye
Certain eye conditions or diseases
Family history of retinal problems
How is retinal detachment treated?

Retinal detachment requires urgent treatment to repair the retina and restore its position. Treatment options may include:

Laser treatment or freezing (cryotherapy) to seal retinal tears
Surgery to reattach the retina
Injecting a gas bubble or silicone oil into the eye to hold the retina in place while it heals

The type of treatment depends on the severity and location of the detachment. Early treatment greatly improves the chances of preserving vision.

Living after retinal detachment

Recovery from retinal detachment varies depending on how quickly it was treated and how much of the retina was affected. Some people regain much of their vision, while others may experience lasting changes.

You may need to attend follow-up appointments and make temporary adjustments during recovery, such as limiting certain activities. Your eye specialist will provide guidance based on your individual situation.

When to seek help

You should seek urgent medical attention immediately if you notice flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, or a shadow or curtain across your vision. Retinal detachment is an emergency, and early treatment is critical to protect your sight.

Support is available

Experiencing a sudden eye condition like retinal detachment can be frightening. Support is available to help you understand what’s happening, cope with changes in your vision, and adjust during recovery. Our team is here to offer guidance, reassurance, and practical advice when you need it most.

Frequently asked questions
Is retinal detachment painful?

Retinal detachment is usually not painful, but the visual symptoms can appear suddenly and should never be ignored.

Can retinal detachment be cured?

Retinal detachment can often be treated successfully if caught early, but some vision loss may be permanent depending on the severity.

How quickly should I seek help?

Immediately. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is essential to prevent permanent vision loss.