|
When
patients are told they have a retinal detachment they are naturally
concerned about what this may involve. Often they worry about whether
they will lose their sight, or, if they have lost any sight whether
they will recover it. These are normal reactions and we hope this
booklet answers any questions these anxieties may raise
The
Retina
The
retina is the light sensitive tissue layer at the back of the eye
which transmits the messages of the light rays along the optic nerve
to the brain where understanding of what is seen takes place. Light
rays enter the eye through the transparent (clear) cornea then pass
through the pupil in the centre of the iris (coloured part of the
eye). Light must pass through the lens and vitreous (a jelly-like
substance) before reaching the retina.
What
is a retinal detachment ?
When
a retinal detachment develops a separation occurs between the retina
and the underlying inner wall of the eye. This is similar to wallpaper
peeling off a wall. The part that is detached (peeled off) will
not work properly. The picture that the brain receives becomes patchy
or may be lost completely. An operation is necessary to replace
the detached retina in it's proper position.
People
often describe seeing "something black" or "a curtain", "cobweb"
or "flashing lights". In older persons these do not necessarily
indicate a serious problem. But the sudden appearance of floaters
and flashes requires a full eye examination to exclude the presence
of retinal holes or tears.
Nearly
all retinal detachments develop because of a hole or tear in the
retina. This usually occurs when the retina becomes 'thin' especially
in short sighted people or if the vitreous separates from the retina.
Other eye or health problems such as diabetes, after cataract operation
and injury such as a blow to the eye can occasionally be the cause
of a retinal detachment.
If
I have a detached retina in one eye will I get it in the other?
For
some people with a retinal detachment in one eye there is a greater
possibility of this happening in the other eye. Any symptoms demand
a prompt eye examination by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor). Both
eyes will be examined and preventive treatment may be recommended.
|
