What is a retinal detachment?

Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition where the retina pulls away from its normal position. The retina is a thin layer of tissue found at the back of your eye that helps you see.

When this happens, the retina doesn't get the blood and oxygen it needs to work properly. This can lead to vision loss or blindness, if not treated quickly.

A retinal detachment is a medical emergency.

What are the symptoms of a retinal detachment?

A detached retina can cause symptoms that affect your vision and may start suddenly. Symptoms may include:

• short, small flashes of light
• a sudden increase or change of floaters (blobs, streaks or specks) in one eye
• a shadow or dark curtain appearing from the edge your vision
• distorted (bent) vision

Some people lose their vision suddenly.

When should I call an ambulance or go to the emergency department?

If you notice symptoms of a retinal detachment or have any new vision problems, call an ambulance or go to the closest emergency department. It's important to have your eyes checked as soon as possible.

What causes a retinal detachment?

Most retinal detachments happen because of a tear or hole in the retina. This causes fluid to build up under the retina. The retina then pulls away from the tissues beneath it. This can be caused by:

• ageing
• eye injury
• diabetic retinopathy
• rare inflammatory eye conditions

You are at higher risk of retinal detachment if you:

• are over 50 years old
• are very short-sighted (myopia)
• have a family history of retinal detachment

How is a retinal detachment diagnosed?

A retinal detachment is diagnosed with an eye examination with an optometrist or ophthalmologist (eye specialist). They will ask you questions and check your eyes. Your doctor may use drops to dilate (widen) your pupil, so they can see your retina better.

How is a retinal detachment treated?

A retinal detachment usually needs surgery to prevent blindness. An ophthalmologist will reattach your retina, as soon as possible. The type of surgery depends on where the detachment is and how severe it is.

The main surgical options include:

• scleral bucking — a silicone band is sewn onto the outside of your eye to push the wall inward and help the retina attach. This band is usually permanent but cannot be seen.
• vitrectomy — the eye's jelly-like substance (vitreous) is removed and replaced with gas or silicone oil to help the retina reattach. The gas absorbs naturally over time. The silicone oil may be removed later.
• pneumatic retinopexy — sometimes, freezing the retinal tear and injecting a gas bubble is enough to reattach the retina.

Ask your doctor about the risks and benefits of surgery.

If retinal holes and tears are found before a retinal detachment happens, they may be sealed with laser treatment or freezing (cryotherapy).

What are the complications of a retinal detachment?

If you have a retinal detachment, it will not get better without treatment. If it is not treated, you can lose your vision.

Read more on blindness.

Can a retinal detachment be prevented?

A retinal detachment can sometimes be prevented if a retinal tear is found early and treated. This does not always guarantee prevention.

It's important to report any new or worsening symptoms such as flashes or floaters to your doctor immediately. Attend follow-up appointments to make sure tears are properly treated.

You can also take steps to reduce the risk of eye injury. Wear protective eyewear when doing sports, using tools or gardening.

Regular eye tests can help monitor your eye health.

Resources and support

There are several trusted organisations that provide valuable resources and support services:

• Macular Disease Foundation Australia has information on retinal detachment and support services.
• For vision loss support, contact Vision Australia on 1300 84 74 66 or visit their website for information.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?

HealthInfoNet offers a fact sheet on diabetic retinopathy, as well as general information on eye health for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.

Do you prefer to read in languages other than English?

Vision Australia has a range of eye health resources in many community languages.

Health Translations has an article on diabetes and your eyes, available in several languages.