The retina lines the back of the eye, much like the film of a camera. Overlying the retina is a gel called "vitreous". Not uncommonly the vitreous may contract and pull away from the retina. In doing so it may tear a hole in the retina leading to the retina detaching from the back of the eye. Untreated this may blind the eye.
Risk factors for a retinal detachment can include:
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Short-sightedness (myopia)
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Family history
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Previous retinal detachment
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Previous eye surgery
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Trauma to the eye
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Increasing age
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Symptoms include:
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Sudden onset of light flashes and floaters in one eye
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A shadow, veil or curtain over part of your vision
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“Wavy" or "watery" vision
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Shower of floaters that resemble spots, bugs, or spider webs
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Sudden loss of vision
If you have any of these symptoms you should see an ophthalmologist.
