10 Causes of Retinal Detachment

By albert

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Retinal detachment is a serious vision problem that requires emergency attention. If not addressed immediately, it can lead to permanent vision loss. The condition occurs when part of the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the rear inner surface of the eye, detaches from the choroid layer. Retinal detachment cuts blood supply to the retina. Considering that the retina is critical for the processing of visual images sent to the brain through the optic nerve, a lack of blood supply means the retina can no longer work effectively.

Symptoms of retinal detachment include the appearance of floating particles within your visual area, flashes of light, and vision deterioration. The problem is more common in people aged 50 years or older, those with extreme near-sightedness, and those who have a family history of retinal detachment. What are the causes of retinal detachment? Let’s take a look at the most common conditions.

Cause #1: Changes In Vitreous

Vitreous is a clear jelly-like material that occupies the inside space of the eye. Because this material is clear, it lets light to pass through to the retina. However, if the viscosity of the vitreous changes, it can pull away from the retina. As this happens, the vitreous can cause parts of the retina to tear away, leaving behind some tiny wounds.

These wounds can cause the vitreous to leak through to the back of the retina. The resultant pressure behind the retina can cause retinal detachment. It is worth noting that changes in vitreous viscosity are more common in older people than in younger ones.