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Retinal detachment is a very serious condition that occurs when the retina pulls away from its supporting tissues. Since the retina can't work properly under these conditions, permanent vision loss may occur if a detachment is not repaired within 24 to 72 hours.

Who's at Risk for Retinal Detachment?

Retinal detachment is considered a risk for the following groups of people:

• Nearsighted adults
• People who have had an eye injury or post-cataract extraction surgery
• People with a family history of retinal detachment

Retinal detachment may also be spontaneous. This occurs more often in the elderly or in very nearsighted people.

What Are the Symptoms of Retinal Detachment?

Symptoms of retinal detachment include:

• Flashes of light
• Showering effect of floaters (small flecks or threads) in the visual field.
• Darkening of the peripheral visual field.