Retinal detachment itself is painless. But warning signs almost always appear before it occurs or has advanced, such as: The sudden appearance of many floaters — tiny specks that seem to drift through your field of vision. Flashes of light in one or both eyes (photopsia)

How quickly does retinal detachment progress?

Without treatment, vision loss from retinal detachment can progress from minor to severe or even to blindness within a few hours or days. Retinal tears and holes, though, may not need treatment.

Can a retinal detachment heal on its own?

A detached retina won't heal on its own. It's important to get medical care as soon as possible so you have the best odds of keeping your vision.