All conditions

Retinal detachment

An emergency that needs prompt care.

What is it?

A condition in which the retina pulls away from the wall of the eye. Without prompt treatment it can cause permanent vision loss.

Symptoms

A sudden appearance of floaters, flashes of light, and sometimes a "curtain" or shadow covering part of the field of vision.

When to seek care

Immediately. This is an emergency — seek urgent care from an ophthalmologist.

Diagnosis and treatment

A dilated eye examination, sometimes with an ultrasound of the eye. Treatment is usually surgical.

The information here is general and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.

Questions?

Write to me and I will reply.

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