Detached retina calls for immediate attention to prevent blindness
BY DR. KOMOROFF Universal Uclick
Friday, January 25, 2013
1/25/13 at 4:33 AM
Dear Doctor K: My father was diagnosed with a detached retina. The doctor said this isn't uncommon in older people, and that he could have gone blind without treatment. What are the symptoms of, and treatments for, this condition, so I can protect myself?
Dear Reader: Normally, your retina lies directly on top of other cells and blood vessels that support and nourish it. If the retina separates from these underlying cells and vessels, it cannot function properly.
The symptoms you have depend on where the retina detaches. You may experience a sudden blurring or loss of vision, or you may feel as if a curtain has been drawn over one side of your eye.
Other symptoms may include floaters or brief flashes of light. Floaters are fairly common. Nevertheless, if the floaters are suddenly much more prominent and persistent than usual, get it checked out. Likewise, brief flashes of light are more often caused by migraines than by retinal detachment. Nevertheless, if they are more severe than usual check it out.
Several techniques are available to treat retinal detachment:
Scleral buckling A tiny hole is made in the sclera, the tough layer beneath the retina. Any vitreous fluid that has leaked behind the retina is drained, allowing the detached retina to fall back into its normal position. Next, a small tuck or indentation is made in the sclera and secured with a silicone buckle.
Cryotherapy The retinal tear is sealed with a freezing probe.
Laser photocoagulation The retinal tear is sealed with a laser beam.
Pneumopexy A bubble of special gas is injected near the area of detachment to press the retina back into place.
Vitrectomy Part of the vitreous fluid is removed near the detachment and replaced with a sterile saline solution or some other fluid.
Never hesitate to contact your doctor or eye doctor immediately if you have symptoms.
Write Dr. K at www.AskDoctorK.com or c/o Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut, Kansas City, MO 64106
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