MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is when the retina peels away from the back of the eye. It is a medical emergency that can cause permanent vision loss without prompt treatment.
Causes & risk factors
- Ageing changes in the jelly of the eye
- Severe short sight (high myopia)
- Eye injury
- Previous eye surgery such as cataract surgery
- Family history
- Diabetic eye disease
Common symptoms
- Sudden increase in floaters
- Flashes of light
- A dark curtain or shadow across vision
- Blurred vision
- Sudden loss of part of the vision
Tests & diagnosis
- Dilated retinal examination
- Ultrasound of the eye
- OCT scan
- Vision test
Treatment & management
- This is an emergency — urgent surgery is usually needed
- Laser or freezing treatment to seal retinal tears
- Surgery to reattach the retina
- Prompt treatment gives the best chance of saving vision
- Follow-up monitoring afterwards
When to see a doctor urgently
- Sudden many new floaters or flashes of light
- A curtain or shadow spreading across your vision
- Sudden loss of part of your sight
- Any sudden vision change (seek care immediately)
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about retinal detachment. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is retinal detachment an emergency?
Yes. It needs urgent assessment, often the same day, because the sooner it is repaired, the better the chance of saving vision.
What do flashes and floaters mean?
A few floaters are common, but a sudden shower of floaters with flashes of light can signal a retinal tear and must be checked immediately.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.