The retina is a crucial part of your eye. It’s responsible for converting light into signals that your brain interprets as images. Retinal detachment happens when the retina is separated from the underlying tissue. This can lead to severe vision impairment or even blindness if not promptly treated.
Risk Factors for Retinal Detachment
Several things can increase your risk of developing retinal detachment. These include:
- Age
- Eye injuries
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Family history
- Previous retinal detachment
Tip and Techniques
Schedule comprehensive eye examinations with an ophthalmologist or optometrist at least once a year. Early detection is crucial.
If you’re nearsighted, follow your eye doctor’s recommendations for corrective lenses or consider options like orthokeratology or laser eye surgery to manage your myopia.
When engaging in activities that could cause eye damage, be sure to use safety goggles. To avoid causing inadvertent eye injury, use caution when working with dangerous equipment or instruments.
Take regular breaks when working on screens to reduce eye strain. Make sure to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Learn the signs of a retinal detachment, which include abrupt bursts of light, floaters, or a shadow that is like a curtain in your field of vision. Seek emergency medical help if you experience any of these.
Finally, knowing the history of your family’s eye health will assist you and your healthcare professional in determining your risk and taking preventative actions.
Book an Appointment
Protecting your vision is a lifelong commitment, and preventing retinal detachment is a significant part of that effort. By following these tips and techniques and being proactive about your eye health, you can reduce your risk of retinal detachment. If you want to start being proactive, contact North Suburban Eye Associates, which is located and operates in three locations: Wakefield, Winchester, and Waltham, MA. Call 781-245-5200 (Winchester and Wakefield) or 617-864-3600 (Waltham) to schedule an appointment.