Understanding the Retina
The retina is the light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the inside of the eye and sends visual messages through the optic nerve to the brain. The retina is a very important part of the eye that connects the images that the eye interprets to the brain itself. Basically, this is how we SEE! The retina is connected via the optic nerve to the brain. If this retina detaches from the optic nerve permanent vision loss can result. Ophthalmologists often worry about diabetic patients because this disease is known to put stress on the retina and optic nerve. In some cases, there may be areas of the retina that are torn. These areas, called retinal tears or retinal breaks, can often lead to retinal detachment.
What is a Retinal Detachment?
A retinal detachment may occur with age when changes in the vitreous fluid in the back part of the eye occur. This is actually a shrinkage of the vitreous gel and this gel may pull back from the retina. If the tearing or pulling of the vitreous fluid is strong enough the retina may tear or detach from the back of the eye. A retinal detachment may seem strange because there is no pain involved in your eye but you would most likely experience flashes and floaters or spots and specks.
Warning Signs of a Retina Tear
If you start to experience these types of visual conditions it might be the warning signs of a retina tear or detachment. Be sure to contact an ophthalmologist quickly to get an eye exam for review of this situation. The treatment protocol for retina detachments includes laser surgery or operating room vitrectomy surgery. If you experiencing signs of a retina detachment and are having flashes and floaters you can schedule a comprehensive retina eye exam with the Cleveland Eye Clinic. Our highly skilled eye surgeons are here to help you when dealing with different types of retina and aging eye problems. For more information regarding flashes and floaters, schedule an appointment with our eye doctors today.
