The retina is a thin layer of light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye; it converts light into signals that travel through the optic nerve to the brain. Retinal concerns can develop for many reasons, including physical damage, natural aging, and inherited traits. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina pulls away from the blood vessel layer that supplies it with oxygen and nutrients. Here’s more information on the causes and risk factors of retinal detachment to help you know when to get an eye examination:
Damage To the Retina
Most detachments begin with a retinal break, which can look like a hole or a tear. Tears may form when tissue inside the eye pulls on the retina. The interior of the eye is filled with a gel-like substance called the vitreous. When a break is present, vitreous fluid can pass through the opening.
This vitreous fluid may collect beneath the retina and gradually lift it from the underlying tissue. This form of detachment is known as rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, and it is the most common type. A direct blow to the eye or head may create a tear. Previous eye surgery, such as cataract removal, also increases the risk of retinal breaks. Certain eye conditions cause scar tissue to form on the retina’s surface; this scar tissue can contract and pull the retina out of position without a hole or tear. This is called tractional retinal detachment.
Age-related Changes
Age is one of the biggest risk factors for retinal detachment, and the condition occurs most often in people over 50. The vitreous gel in the eyes becomes more liquid and shrinks over time. As it shrinks, it may separate from the retina. This process is called posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).
PVD is common with aging; it does not always lead to retinal problems. In some cases, however, the vitreous remains attached to certain areas of the retina as it pulls away. This tension can create a retinal tear. Symptoms associated with PVD and retinal tears may include:
- New Floaters
- Flashes of Light
- Shadow In Peripheral Vision
An eye care professional can evaluate these changes to determine whether the retina has been affected. High myopia, or severe nearsightedness, may add to this risk because it also stretches the retina.
Hereditary Thinning Factors
Some people inherit traits that affect retinal structure, like lattice degeneration. This condition causes areas of the peripheral retina to become thin and weak, which may increase the likelihood of holes or tears forming in those areas. A family history of retinal detachment is another risk factor. If a parent or sibling has experienced the condition, your own risk may be higher. Hereditary factors do not guarantee retinal detachment, but they indicate a greater need for awareness and routine evaluation.
Avoid Retinal Detachment
You can’t control age or genetics, but regular eye examinations allow an ophthalmologist to look for early signs of thinning, holes, or tears. During a dilated eye exam, the ophthalmologist can view the peripheral retina in detail. Ophthalmologists may be able to address some retinal tears before detachment develops, so early detection matters. If you notice sudden floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow across your vision, contact an eye care professional promptly.
