What Is the Most Common Cause of Retinal Tears?
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A retinal tear occurs when the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye develops a break, often leading to vision problems if left untreated. The most common cause of a tear in the retina is posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), a natural aging process where the eye's gel-like vitreous shrinks and pulls away from the retina. While this process is normal, excessive pulling can create a tear, increasing the risk of retinal detachment. At Retina Associates of St. Louis, we help patients understand retinal tear causes, recognize symptoms early, and receive prompt treatment to protect their vision. To learn more about this condition, contact us in St. Louis, MO.
What causes retinal tears?
The cause of retinal tears varies from person to person, but the primary factor is posterior vitreous detachment. As the vitreous gel inside the eye ages, it becomes more liquid and separates from the retina. If the vitreous is strongly attached in certain areas, this separation can cause a tear in the retina. Other causes include severe nearsightedness (which puts additional stress on the retina), previous eye surgery (such as cataract removal), eye trauma, or a family history of retinal problems.
What are the symptoms of a retinal tear?
Recognizing retinal tear symptoms early is crucial for preventing further damage. Common symptoms of a retinal tear include:
- Sudden flashes of light in vision, especially in dim lighting
- An increase in floaters, which appear as small dark spots or cobweb-like shapes
- A shadow or curtain-like effect in your peripheral vision
- Blurred vision or a decrease in visual clarity
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to contact our St. Louis facility right away, as untreated tears can lead to retinal detachment, which may result in permanent vision loss.
How is a retinal tear diagnosed and treated?
If you experience retinal tear symptoms, we will perform a dilated eye exam and possibly use imaging tests to assess the damage. Treatment for retinal tear depends on the severity of the tear. In many cases, a laser photocoagulation procedure is used to create small burns around the tear, sealing it to prevent further damage. Another option is cryopexy, which freezes the affected area to reinforce the retina. These treatments are quick, minimally invasive, and highly effective in preventing progression to a retinal detachment.
Can retinal tears be prevented?
While it's not always possible to prevent a tear in the retina, certain precautions can help lower your risk. If you are nearsighted or have a family history of retinal conditions, regular eye exams can help detect early signs of retinal issues. Protecting your eyes from injury by wearing protective eyewear during sports or high-risk activities is also important. Managing underlying health conditions like diabetes can also help maintain retinal health.
Ensure healthy eyes
A retinal tear is a serious condition, but early detection and treatment can help protect your vision. If you have concerns about retinal tear causes, retinal tear symptoms, or treatment options, the specialists at Retina Associates of St. Louis are here to help. Contact us in St. Louis, MO today to schedule an eye exam, and ensure your vision stays healthy for years to come.