Best Doctor List Near You for Retinal Detachment in Iowa

Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition where the retina, the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye responsible for processing light and sending visual signals to the brain, separates from its underlying layer of blood vessels that provide it with oxygen and nutrients. This detachment can lead to vision loss if not promptly treated, as the retinal cells become deprived of oxygen and begin to die. Retinal detachment can occur due to several causes, including a tear or hole in the retina, which allows fluid to seep underneath and lift the retina away from its supportive tissue. This can be a result of aging, trauma, severe nearsightedness, or following eye surgery. Other risk factors include a family history of retinal detachment, previous detachment in the other eye, and certain eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy. Symptoms of retinal detachment include the sudden appearance of floaters (small specks or cobweb-like shapes that drift through your field of vision), flashes of light, and a shadow or curtain descending over a portion of the visual field. If left untreated, retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness in the affected eye. Treatment options typically involve surgical intervention, such as pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle surgery, or vitrectomy, depending on the severity and type of detachment. Early detection and treatment are crucial to preserve vision. However, complications from surgery may include cataracts, increased intraocular pressure, infection, or further retinal detachment.