Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition where the thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye, the retina, separates from its underlying support structure. Without immediate treatment, this separation can lead to permanent vision loss. Understanding what causes retinal detachment and who’s most at risk is the first step to protecting your eyesight.
At Everett & Hurite Ophthalmic Specialists, we offer advanced, personalized eye care for patients in Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. Our experienced team of board-certified ophthalmologists provides comprehensive retinal evaluations, treatments, and preventative screenings. If you’ve experienced vision changes or fall into a high-risk group, don’t wait.
Let’s take a closer look at what causes retinal detachment, the risk factors to know, and how you can protect your vision.
Understanding What Causes Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment happens when the retina, the thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye, pulls away from its normal position. This separation cuts off the retina’s access to oxygen and nutrients, which can quickly lead to vision loss if not treated.
There are three main types of retinal detachment:
- Rhegmatogenous detachment: The most common type, caused by a tear or hole in the retina that allows fluid to seep underneath.
- Tractional detachment: Happens when scar tissue pulls on the retina, often related to diabetic eye disease.
- Exudative detachment: Occurs without a tear, usually due to inflammation, tumors, or leakage from blood vessels.
The causes can be complex, but most stem from aging, underlying eye conditions, or trauma. Early symptoms may include eye floaters and flashes, shadowed or blurred vision, or a curtain-like shadow over part of your vision.
Genetic and Lifestyle Risks to Know
Some people are more likely to develop retinal detachment simply due to their genetic makeup or lifestyle history. Key retinal detachment risk factors include:
- Family history: If retinal detachment runs in your family, your risk is higher.
- Previous detachment: If you’ve experienced it in one eye, the other may also be at risk.
- Myopia (nearsightedness): Especially high myopia (severe nearsightedness), which elongates the eye and thins the retina, making it more prone to tears.
- Lattice degeneration: A condition where parts of the retina become thin and weak.
- Previous eye injuries: Blunt trauma can lead to a tear or break in the retina, sometimes even years later.
In particular, myopia and retinal detachment are closely linked. Individuals with high myopia should be vigilant about their vision and schedule regular eye exams with specialists.
How Aging and Eye Surgeries Affect the Retina
As we age, the eye naturally undergoes changes that increase the risk of retinal detachment. One of the most common age-related factors is posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). As the jelly-like substance in your eye (the vitreous) begins to shrink and pull away from the retina, it can cause a tear.
Additionally, previous eye surgeries, particularly cataract removal, are associated with a higher risk of retinal detachment. This is due to subtle changes in the eye's structure after surgery, which can place stress on the retina.
People over 50 are at significantly higher risk, especially if they’ve had any of the following:
- Cataract surgery
- Eye trauma
- Long-term eye conditions like myopia
Regular follow-up care is essential after surgery to monitor for any retinal changes.
Diabetes, Injury, and Other Medical Risks
Health conditions such as diabetes can also lead to retinal detachment. People with diabetes are more likely to develop diabetic retinopathy, a condition where blood vessels in the retina become damaged and scar tissue forms. Over time, this scarring can tug on the retina, causing a tractional detachment.
Other trauma-related or medical risks include:
- Eye injuries from sports, car accidents, or workplace incidents
- Eye tumors or inflammatory conditions (exudative detachment)
- Retinal vein occlusion, where blood flow is blocked in the retinal veins
- Autoimmune or inflammatory eye disease
If you’ve had any of these conditions, routine monitoring by eye doctors in Pittsburgh or your local area is highly recommended.
Smart Strategies for Retinal Detachment Prevention
While not all retinal detachment cases can be avoided, many can be caught early or prevented altogether with the right steps. Here are some evidence-backed retinal detachment prevention strategies:
- Know your family history: If someone in your family has had retinal detachment, share that with your eye doctor.
- Manage myopia: Regular screenings can detect changes in the retina early, especially for those with high myopia.
Protect your eyes: Always wear protective eyewear during contact sports, construction work, or other high-risk activities. - Control chronic conditions: Keep diabetes and high blood pressure well-managed to reduce strain on the retinal blood vessels.
- Stay alert to changes: If you notice sudden eye floaters and flashes, blurred vision, or a shadow in your visual field, seek care immediately.
Many detachments begin as small tears. Catching them early can mean the difference between a simple outpatient procedure and permanent vision loss.
Why Early Diagnosis Saves Sight
The best treatment is always early treatment. Early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes and can prevent total vision loss. Once the retina has detached, surgery is often necessary, and the sooner it's performed, the better the chances of a full recovery. Retinal imaging, dilation exams, and other diagnostic tools allow specialists to detect even the smallest issues before they become emergencies.
At Everett & Hurite, we use advanced diagnostic technology to monitor high-risk patients closely. Our retina specialists create personalized care plans to preserve vision and prevent further damage.
Protect Your Vision With Everett & Hurite
Retinal detachment is a serious but manageable condition, especially when detected early. By understanding your personal risk factors and prioritizing your eye health, you can take proactive steps to preserve your sight. At Everett & Hurite Ophthalmic Specialists, we provide comprehensive retinal care tailored to your needs. Whether you're managing high myopia, recovering from surgery, or simply monitoring your risk, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.
Call us today at 412-288-0858 or request an appointment online to schedule your retinal screening. Don’t wait, your vision is too important to leave to chance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes retinal detachment?
Retinal detachment can be caused by tears, scar tissue, or fluid buildup under the retina. It’s often linked to aging, myopia, trauma, or surgery.
Can I prevent retinal detachment?
While not all cases can be prevented, you can lower your risk with regular eye exams, managing chronic conditions, and protecting your eyes from injury.
Is retinal detachment more common with age?
Yes, people over 50 are at higher risk due to age-related changes in the eye’s structure, especially the vitreous.
How does myopia increase my risk?
High myopia stretches and thins the retina, making it more vulnerable to tears or detachment. Frequent screenings are essential.
When should I see an eye doctor for symptoms?
If you see flashes, floaters, or a shadow in your vision, seek medical attention immediately. Early treatment is critical to prevent vision loss.
