What Increases Your Risk

Things that increase your risk for retinal detachment include:

• A family history of retinal detachment.
• Previous retinal detachment in the other eye.
• Recent posterior vitreous detachment, in which the vitreous gel shrinks and separates from the retina.
• Lattice degeneration, an inherited condition in which parts of the retina become very thin and are easily torn.
• Age older than 50.
• Nearsightedness (myopia). The shape of a nearsighted eye results in more pulling (traction) on the retina. This in turn can cause premature posterior vitreous detachment. The retina is also thinner and more likely to tear in people who are nearsighted.
• Surgery for cataracts. People who have had cataract surgery are at increased risk for later developing retinal detachment.
• Blunt injury or blow to the head.
• Injury to the eye.
• Diabetes, which can lead to proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
• Other eye disorders or eye tumors.

When To Call a Doctor

Flashes of light and floaters often occur as you get older or with migraine headaches. Flashes of light in migraine headaches are often located in the center of your visual field. But flashes of light and floaters can also be signs of a problem that might lead to retinal detachment.

If flashes of light or floaters occur suddenly or in great numbers, or if you are not sure what to do, do not wait for vision loss to occur before you call your doctor. If you cannot reach your doctor, go to the emergency room. Although these symptoms do not cause pain and may seem harmless, getting an eye exam and quick treatment can send you home relieved or, if there is a problem, can save your vision.

Watchful waiting

Taking a wait-and-see approach, called watchful waiting, is not an option if you have new or sudden flashes or floaters, darkness over part of your visual field, or a new loss of vision that does not go away. Sudden, rapid vision loss is a medical emergency.

Who to see

If you have symptoms that suggest that you might have or are at immediate risk for a retinal detachment, call your doctor immediately. If you do not have an eye doctor (ophthalmologist), call your regular doctor. Based on your symptoms, risk factors, and medical history, your doctor may refer you to an eye doctor for an immediate exam and possible treatment.

Treatment for retinal tears and detachments is often done by an eye doctor who specializes in retinal detachments.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.