What is a Retinal Tear or Torn Retina?
A torn retina is a serious eye problem that can happen when the retina has a tiny tear or hole that actually tears further, like a rip in a piece of cloth. If not treated right away, a torn retina can lead to an even more serious problem called a detached retina where the retina is lifted away from the back of the eye and puts you at considerable risk of vision loss.
How Does a Torn Retina Happen?
When you are young the vitreous
gel in your eyes is pretty firm. As we get older, the vitreous
gel in your eyes starts to shrink and get
thinner. Normally, the vitreous moves around on the retina without causing
problems. But, IF the vitreous sticks to the retina it can pull hard enough to
actually tear it. When that happens, fluid can pass through the tear and lift
it or detach the retina.
What Will I See if the Retina Tears?
When the retina tears, you may
suddenly see flashes of light or floaters. Sometimes blood can leak into the vitreous. This is
called a vitreous hemorrhage, and it can cause a large number of floaters to
appear suddenly. With any sudden onset of flashes of light or floaters you need
to be examined right away as a torn retina can quickly cause a retinal
detachment and you could lose vision.
If you or someone you know experiences sudden flashes of light or floaters please call our office and tell us that you need an immediate appointment. Call us at Doctor & Associates-203-227-4113, visit Doctor & Associates in Fairfield County, or Facebook to schedule an appointment.
Doctor & Associates offices are conveniently located at 129 Kings Highway North, Westport, Connecticut 06880, 195 Danbury Road, Wilton, Connecticut 06897 and 148 East Avenue, Norwalk, Connecticut 06851
