Risk factors
Aging — retinal detachment is more common in people over age 50. Previous retinal detachment in one eye. Family history of retinal detachment.
What is the most common cause of retinal detachment?
Rhegmatogenous: The most common cause of retinal detachment happens when there's a small tear in your retina. Eye fluid called vitreous can travel through the tear and collect behind the retina. It then pushes the retina away, detaching it from the back of your eye.
How serious is a detached retina?
A detached retina occurs when the retina is pulled away from its normal position in the back of the eye. The retina sends visual images to the brain through the optic nerve. When detachment occurs, vision is blurred. A detached retina is a serious problem that can cause blindness unless it is treated.
