What are the warning signs of retinal detachment?
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Quick answer
New flashes of light, a sudden increase or shower of floaters, a dark curtain or shadow, missing side vision or sudden distortion can be warning signs of a retinal tear or detachment. A retinal detachment is a medical emergency. Go to the nearest emergency department or call Triple Zero (000), and do not wait for symptoms to settle.
A retinal detachment is a serious eye condition in which the retina separates from its normal position at the back of the eye. It can permanently affect vision if treatment is delayed. The warning signs are usually changes in what you see rather than pain.
What are the warning signs of retinal detachment?
Go to the nearest emergency department or call Triple Zero (000) if you develop:
- new flashes of light, especially in one eye;
- a sudden increase or shower of floaters;
- a dark curtain, veil or shadow moving across your vision;
- a new missing area of side vision;
- sudden distortion or a noticeable reduction in vision; or
- new or worsening symptoms after an eye injury or eye procedure.
These symptoms do not always mean the retina has detached, but they can occur when the retina has torn or detached. A retinal detachment is a medical emergency, and a prompt dilated retinal examination is needed to determine the cause.
Do flashes and floaters always mean retinal detachment?
No. Floaters can be common and many people notice occasional spots or strands in their vision. Flashes can also occur when the gel inside the eye changes with age. The important warning is a new symptom, a sudden change, or a cluster of symptoms such as flashes with many new floaters or a curtain-like shadow.
Do not wait for these changes to disappear. Go to the nearest emergency department or call Triple Zero (000), even if central vision still seems clear.
Who has a higher risk of retinal detachment?
Retinal detachment can affect anyone, but risk is higher in people who:
- are over 50;
- are very short-sighted;
- have had cataract or other eye surgery;
- have had a significant eye injury;
- have previously had a retinal tear or detachment; or
- have a close family history of retinal detachment.
Having a risk factor does not mean a detachment will occur. It does mean that new warning symptoms should be taken seriously.
How is a retinal tear or detachment checked?
An optometrist or ophthalmologist will ask when the symptoms began, whether they affect one or both eyes, and whether there was an injury or recent procedure. The assessment usually includes checking vision and examining the retina through a dilated pupil.
If a retinal tear or detachment is suspected, urgent ophthalmology referral is required. A tear may sometimes be sealed with laser or freezing treatment before it progresses. A retinal detachment generally requires surgery; the appropriate treatment depends on its location, extent and effect on vision.
Can City Optics assess new flashes and floaters?
Our optometrists provide eye disease screening for non-emergency eye care and ongoing risk monitoring. You can view our booking options for those routine needs.
For new flashes, a sudden shower of floaters, a dark curtain or shadow, sudden loss of vision or other retinal-detachment warning signs, follow the advice in our eye-emergency guide and go directly to emergency care rather than waiting for a City Optics appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Should I wait until tomorrow if new floaters do not hurt?
No. A retinal tear or detachment is often painless. Go to the nearest emergency department or call Triple Zero (000), particularly when floaters occur with flashes, a shadow or reduced vision.
Can retinal detachment affect only one eye?
Yes. Warning symptoms often occur in one eye. Covering each eye separately can help you describe the change, but it should not delay assessment.
Can an eye test find a retinal tear?
A dilated retinal examination can identify many tears or detachments. Some symptoms require urgent referral or further ophthalmic examination even if the initial view is limited.
Can I drive to an appointment?
Do not drive if vision is affected. Arrange safe transport or call Triple Zero (000) if emergency assistance is needed.
This general information does not replace an individual eye examination or medical advice.
