Retinal detachment is a serious and sometimes sudden eye condition that requires prompt attention. The retina is a thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye that senses light and sends visual messages to your brain. When the retina pulls away from its usual position, it can no longer function properly, and this can lead to permanent vision loss if not addressed promptly. Here are some of the early warning signs of retinal detachment:
Darkening Vision
An early and noticeable sign of retinal detachment is a sudden change or darkening in your vision. You might notice what appears to be a dark shadow or veil entering your field of vision from one side. Shadows may start in your peripheral vision and spread toward the center, as though a shade is covering your eye. In other cases, vision loss occurs quickly and may take up a large area. The darkness does not go away with blinking or changes in lighting; this vision loss occurs because the retina cannot process light from the area that has detached, leading to a blind spot at the location of the detachment.
Seeing Floaters
Floaters are another common warning sign. Small shapes seem to drift through your field of vision, looking like specks, spots, or cobwebs. Floaters are typically visible when you are looking at a uniform, light-colored background, such as a white wall or a computer screen.
Many adults notice a few floaters over their lifetime, and these often remain stable. With retinal detachment, a sudden increase in the number or size of floaters is significant. You might notice dozens of tiny dots that were not there before, appearing as a sudden shower of black or gray flecks, and may be accompanied by the appearance of a “cloud.”
New floaters often arise when the vitreous gel inside the eye contracts or shifts, tugging on the retina and creating small tears or openings. Sometimes, floaters are accompanied by strands that move as your eye moves, and they do not go away over time. While not every floater is a concern, a rapid or sudden increase deserves attention.
Flashes of Light
Another warning sign to look for is flashes of light, known medically as photopsia. These flashes might resemble lightning strikes, flickers, or camera flashes, and often appear at the edges of your vision. They may be brief or recur intermittently, and their intensity ranges from subtle glimmers to startling bursts.
You might notice these flashes when moving your eyes quickly or in a dark environment, which can make them easier to spot. As the vitreous gel shifts, it may pull on the retina, which responds by sending signals to the brain that are interpreted as light, even when none is present. Some people describe the experience as seeing “sparkles” or “twinkling lights.”
Learn More About Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment symptoms often appear quickly and require a timely response. A persistent shadow, sudden burst of floaters, or new flashes of light provide early signals that eye care is needed. An ophthalmologist has the experience and tools to diagnose the underlying cause and provide guidance on next steps. Schedule a comprehensive evaluation with a specialist if any of these symptoms develop.