Experiencing sudden flashes of light, new floaters, or a dark shadow in your vision? These could be warning signs of retinal detachment, a serious condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Retinal detachment is an emergency, and early detection is key to preserving your eyesight. At My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills, we provide urgent eye exams and advanced retinal imaging to assess your vision health and identify any serious concerns. If you notice sudden vision changes, don’t wait—seek immediate medical attention. Our team at Sunridge, Sundance, and Three Hills locations is here to help with expert care. Contact us to book an emergency eye exam today and protect your vision before it’s too late!
Your vision is precious, and sudden changes in eyesight should never be overlooked. Retinal detachment is a serious and sight-threatening condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. The retina plays a crucial role in processing visual information, and when it becomes detached, it can no longer function properly.
At My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills, we want to ensure you recognize the warning signs of retinal detachment so you can seek immediate medical attention. If you notice any of the following symptoms, do not wait—retinal detachment is an emergency that requires immediate attention.
1. Flashes of Light (Photopsia)
Sudden, brief flashes of light—especially in your peripheral vision—can be a sign that the retina is tearing or detaching. These flashes may resemble lightning streaks or camera flashes and are often more noticeable in dim lighting or when you move your eyes.
Why It Happens:
When the vitreous gel inside the eye pulls on the retina, it can stimulate the light-sensitive cells, causing flashes. This is particularly common in people with high myopia (nearsightedness), those over 50, or individuals who have experienced eye trauma.
What to Do:
If you suddenly start seeing flashes, contact My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills immediately for an urgent eye exam.
2. An Increase in Floaters
Floaters are small, shadowy shapes that drift across your vision. While some floaters are normal, a sudden increase in floaters, especially in combination with flashes, could signal a retinal tear or detachment.
What Floaters Look Like:
- Dark specks, cobwebs, or strings that move when you shift your eyes
- A sudden "shower" of new floaters
- Large, persistent floaters that interfere with vision
What to Do:
An increase in floaters could mean the vitreous gel is pulling away from the retina or that a tear has formed. Seek urgent medical attention at My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills to prevent vision loss.
3. A Dark Curtain or Shadow Over Vision
One of the most serious signs of retinal detachment is a dark curtain or shadow creeping over part of your vision. This can start in one area and expand, making it seem like a "shade" is covering your sight.
Why It Happens:
As the retina detaches further, it loses blood supply and function. The darkening effect occurs because part of the retina is no longer sending visual signals to the brain.
What to Do:
If you notice a black shadow or vision obstruction, this is an emergency. Contact My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills or go to the nearest emergency eye care provider immediately.
4. Blurred or Distorted Vision
If your vision suddenly becomes blurry, distorted, or wavy, it could be due to a retinal tear or detachment. Unlike gradual vision changes, which may indicate a prescription update, this blurriness often develops rapidly and may not improve with blinking.
Possible Causes:
- Retinal swelling due to fluid leaking underneath the retina
- The retina pulling away from its normal position
- The macula (central part of the retina) losing function
What to Do:
If you experience sudden vision distortion, do not wait for it to improve—seek an emergency eye exam at My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills.
5. Sudden Vision Loss
Losing vision in one or both eyes is an urgent red flag for retinal detachment or other serious eye conditions. Vision loss may be partial or complete and can occur gradually over hours or suddenly in minutes.
Other Possible Causes:
- Retinal artery occlusion (an eye stroke)
- Optic nerve damage
- Severe eye trauma
What to Do:
Do not wait—sudden vision loss is always an emergency. Contact My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills immediately or visit an emergency eye clinic.
Who Is Most at Risk for Retinal Detachment?
Certain factors increase your risk of developing retinal detachment, including:
- Severe nearsightedness (high myopia)
- Previous eye surgery (such as cataract removal)
- Eye trauma or injury
- Family history of retinal detachment
- Aging (over 50 years old)
- Diabetic retinopathy or other retinal conditions
If you fall into any of these categories, regular eye exams are crucial for detecting retinal changes early.
Protect Your Vision—Know the Signs!
Retinal detachment is a vision emergency, and early detection can save your sight. If you experience any of these 5 warning signs, do not wait—seek immediate medical attention.
At My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills, we provide urgent eye exams and advanced diagnostic imaging to detect retinal issues before they cause permanent vision loss. If you or a loved one notice any flashes, floaters, vision loss, or dark shadows, contact My Optometrist in Calgary & Three Hills right away or visit one of our locations in Sunridge, Sundance, or Three Hills locations for emergency eye care.
Don’t ignore the warning signs—book an emergency eye exam today!
FAQ’s
Q: Is retinal detachment painful?
A: No, retinal detachment is typically painless, but the vision changes it causes are serious and require immediate care.
Q: Can retinal detachment heal on its own?
A: No, retinal detachment requires medical intervention, such as laser treatment or surgery, to prevent permanent vision loss.
Q: How is retinal detachment diagnosed?
A: An optometrist performs a dilated eye exam and retinal imaging to assess the retina’s condition and detect detachment. Contact us if you’re experiencing signs of retinal detachment!