Fluid accumulates under the retina. This separates the retina from the layer beneath, called the retinal pigment epithelium. When the retina becomes separated from the retinal pigment epithelium, you lose a portion or all of your vision in the affected eye.

Cause

If the jelly inside the eye pulls away from the back wall of the eye, it can cause a tear in the retina. If the fluid inside the eye leaks into the tear, it pushes the retina off of its base. As the fluid under the retina increases, your vision decreases. 

Symptoms

You may notice you do not have as much peripheral vision in the affected eye.  You may notice you have a dark area in your vision on top, bottom, or on a side of your vision. This is often described as a veil or curtain affecting your vision. Sometimes this follows an episode of flashing lights, or new floaters (dark spots).

Diagnosis

A retinal detachment is diagnosed during a dilated eye examination.  An optometrist, ophthalmologist, or retina surgeon may find the retina detachment, but only a retina surgeon can repair the damage and restore your vision. 

Treatment

If the retinal detachment is diagnosed very early, it may be repaired with a laser treatment in a retina clinic. More advanced retinal detachments must be repaired with outpatient surgery. 

Prevention

Some underlying eye conditions are known to have a higher incidence of retinal detachment.  In many cases, a laser treatment to weak or compromised areas of the peripheral retina may reduce the risk of retinal detachment. 

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