Retinal Detachment - When To Call a Doctor
Flashes of light and floaters often occur as you get older or with migraine headaches. Flashes of light in migraine headaches are often located in the center of your visual field. But flashes of light and floaters can also be signs of a problem that might lead to retinal detachment.
If flashes of light or floaters occur suddenly or in great numbers, or if you are not sure what to do, do not wait for vision loss to occur before you call your doctor. If you cannot reach your doctor, go to the emergency room. Although these symptoms do not cause pain and may seem harmless, getting an eye exam and quick treatment can send you home relieved or, if there is a problem, can save your vision.
Primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) is an eye disease that affects children between the ages of birth and 3 years. It is one type of glaucoma. Glaucoma refers to a group of diseases that affect the eye and cause major damage to the optic nerve. Primary congenital glaucoma is rare. It affects about one in every 10,000 infants. But it is serious and needs attention. Untreated primary congenital glaucoma is a major cause of childhood blindness. "Primary" means the disease does not result from another...
Read the Primary Congenital Glaucoma article > >
Watchful Waiting
Taking a wait-and-see approach, called watchful waiting, is not an option if you have new or sudden flashes or floaters, darkness over part of your visual field, or a new loss of vision that does not go away. Sudden, rapid vision loss is a medical emergency.
Who To See
If you have symptoms that suggest that you might have or are at immediate risk for a retinal detachment, call your doctor immediately. If you do not have an eye doctor (ophthalmologist), call your regular doctor. Based on your symptoms, risk factors, and medical history, your doctor may refer you to an eye doctor for an immediate exam and possible treatment.
Treatment for retinal tears and detachments is often done by an eye doctor who specializes in retinal detachments.
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Retinal Detachment Topics
On Eye Health
Today in Eye Health
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.