The inside of the eye is lined with a light-sensitive layer of tissue known as the retina. If the retina detaches, it’s considered a very serious medical emergency and treatment must be received as soon as possible. A detached retina can cause permanent vision loss.

In less severe cases, a part of the retina may be torn but not detached. This is called a retinal tear or retinal break. However, it’s still a dire situation; it can quickly reach the point of full retinal detachment.

Retinal detachment symptoms include a sudden or gradual increase in the number of floaters in your field of vision, and/or experiencing light flashes in the eye. Additionally, the person could experience seeing a ‘curtain’ over their field of vision, or it feels like they’re looking through water.

If you think you’re experiencing retinal detachment or a torn retina, call Haller Eye Center immediately.