What is a retinal detachment?
A retinal detachment is an emergency: the retina peels away from the wall of the eye, and the separated tissue stops working — like wallpaper coming off a wall. The warning signs are a sudden burst of new floaters, flashes of light, and especially a dark curtain or shadow spreading across your vision. It is painless, which fools people into waiting. Do not wait: call us the same day at (717) 637-1919, or go to the emergency room after hours. Surgery can reattach the retina, and results are far better when the central vision has not yet detached.
§Read video transcript
A retinal detachment occurs when the retina's layers separate. Any portion of the retina that is detached cannot send visual signals to the brain. If left untreated, retinal detachment can cause devastating damage to an individual's vision. Retinal detachment is considered an ocular emergency that requires immediate medical attention
Medical sources
This page and video are for general patient education and are not a substitute for a medical examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Eye conditions vary by individual. For advice about your eyes, schedule an evaluation with May Eye Care Center. In an emergency, call 911.
Schedule your eye exam at May Eye Care Center in Hanover, PA
Serving York, Gettysburg, Adams County, and northern Maryland. Call (717) 637-1919 or explore more about retina & vitreous at our practice.
Call (717) 637-1919