A retinal detachment can be prevented by urgent dilated eye examination and treatment in patients experiencing new flashes and floaters.
Commonly between the ages of 50 and 70, individuals experience a sudden, spontaneous onset of new flashes or floaters in their vision. These symptoms may indicate the presence of a retinal tear or detachment.
Anyone who experiences new flashes and floaters should seek an urgent dilated examination with an ophthalmologist. If a retinal tear is identified, the ophthalmologist will likely treat it with laser or freezing to prevent a detachment. Oftentimes, patients will be referred to a retina specialist for further evaluation or treatment.
Occasionally, a retina specialist may treat an asymptomatic patient with laser or freezing to prevent a retinal tear or detachment.