What is Retinal Detachment (RD)?
The retina is the layer that covers the inside and back of the eye, responsible for initiating visual functions in the optical media of the eye and transmitting visual stimuli to the brain via the optic nerve (the light-sensitive layer). Retinal detachment occurs when fluid accumulates between the outermost layer of the retina, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and its light-sensitive layers, causing the sensory layers of the retina to separate from its outer layer. The loss of vision function in the detached area of the retina can progress to complete vision loss.
Symptoms:
Patients who develop retinal detachment initially experience symptoms such as flashes of light, oval or round shapes, and spider-web-like images. They may also see black or red specks falling or floating in their vision, and eventually, they may experience a loss of vision in the area corresponding to the detached retina. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the type, location, and duration of the detachment.