Understanding Retinal Tears

The retina is a light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye that converts light into electrical signals. Your brain then translates these signals into vision. A retinal tear can interrupt this process and cause significant vision problems without proper treatment. The Eye Care Specialists of Florida in Kissimmee, FL, can diagnose retinal tears during an eye exam and provide prompt treatment to protect your vision. Continue reading to learn about retinal tears and how our ophthalmologist can treat them.

Causes and Symptoms of Retinal Tears

The most common cause of retinal tears is age-related changes to the vitreous humor inside the eye. This clear gel-like substance can shrink and pull away from the retina. A retinal tear occurs when the vitreous pulls too hard and causes a small break or tear in the delicate retinal tissue. You can also experience a retinal tear due to extreme nearsightedness, a previous eye injury, or a family history of retinal detachment.

The most common symptom of retinal tears is blurry vision. You can also experience light flashes in your peripheral vision, a sudden onset of floaters, or darkening vision. While most cases of retinal tears will cause noticeable symptoms, some instances may not cause immediate vision changes. Your eye doctor can detect retinal tears and provide prompt treatment before they lead to significant vision problems.

Treatment for Retinal Tears

Your ophthalmologist will evaluate your eyes and vision during an eye exam to determine the cause and severity of your retinal tear. Depending on the location and size of your retinal tear, your ophthalmologist may recommend laser surgery or cryopexy. Laser surgery can repair the retinal tear and prevent fluid from getting behind it. Cryopexy utilizes extreme cold to create scar tissue and seal the retinal tear. This treatment also stops fluid from pushing the retina away.

Contact the Eye Care Specialists of Florida for Retinal Tear Treatment Today

Early diagnosis and treatment of retinal tears are essential for preventing permanent vision loss, so contact the Eye Care Specialists of Florida in Kissimmee, FL, to get the eye care necessary to protect your eyesight today. Call us and schedule an appointment at (407) 483-0328 to keep your eyes healthy and vision strong.