Santa Ana Retinal Tear Doctor
When a posterior vitreous tear occurs, you should contact a Santa Ana retinal tear doctor as soon as possible. The retina is a light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the inside of the eye. It is also responsible for sending visual messages through the optic nerve and into the brain. When the retina is lifted or pulled from its regular position, it is considered to be detached. If not treated, permanent loss of vision could occur. In other instances, the retina becomes torn. Also known as retinal tears or breaks, if not treated by a retinal tear doctor in Santa Ana, these tears can lead to full detachment.
What are the common symptoms of retinal tears?
The symptoms of retinal detachment can vary from person to person; however, the most frequent symptoms include:
- Sudden or gradual increase in floaters (dark spots that “float” in your field of vision)
- Light flashes in the eye
- Feeling like a sheer curtain has been pulled over your line of sight
- Headaches, nausea, and/or dizziness
- Very few symptoms apart from feeling like something is wrong with your vision
All of the above are considered to be a medical emergency. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please call The Retina Associates of Orange County, a Santa Ana retinal tear doctor you can count on.
Who might be at risk for retinal detachment?
Retinal detachments could occur at any time, in any person, and at any age. However, people over the age of 40 are often more affected, especially men. A retinal tear is also more common in people who:
- Are very nearsighted
- Have had a retinal detachment before
- Have a family history of retinal detachments
- Have had cataract surgery
- Have had other eye problems including retinoschisis, degenerative myopia, or lattice degeneration
- Have experienced a recent eye injury
How a Santa Ana Retinal Tear Doctor Treats the Problem
In general, small holes, tears, or breaks in the retina are treated with a laser. Local anesthesia may be used to alleviate any pain. The healing that occurs after the laser “spot-welds” the retina can help to prevent future retinal detachment. If laser treatment is not a viable option, a freezing procedure known as cryopexy could also be used. Because treatment is judged on a case-by-case basis, it is advisable to speak with a retinal tear doctor Santa Ana residents can trust.
Scheduling an Appointment with The Retina Associates of Orange County
Retinal tears are considered to be a serious health concern, which can have permanent repercussions if not addressed and treated in a timely manner. The Retina Associates of Orange County is a group of renowned board certified Ophthalmologists who specialize in diseases and injuries related to the retina. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a retinal tear, or think you might have one but are not sure, The Retina Associates of Orange County may be able to help. To schedule a free consultation with a Santa Ana retinal tear doctor, call 714-500-8677.