Retinal Tear

Brief Description

Retinal tear is the small rapture of the retina of the eye. The retina is a thin sheet of light sensitive nerves at the back of eyeball behind the vitreous.  The function of retina is to perceive light and to form vision. Anything, such as blood and tissue, in the passage of the light will be perceived by the retina as floaters. The vitreous is clear gel in the front of the retina, which not only transmits light but also supports retina attached to the back of the eyeball. As one gets age, vitreous shrinks or condenses which can pull the retinal forward and can tear the retina. Retinal tear in general is a normal aging process and cause only small damages on the retinal. However, if it is not properly treated, it may become retinal detachment. Traumatic injury and eye inflammation may cause retinal tear. People with diabetes, cataract surgery and nearsighted are at increased risk of retinal tear.

Symptoms are similar to PVD since the retinal tear usually is the result from PVD.  When there is a sudden appearance or increase in number and size of floaters, this usually is the indication of retinal tear. The floaters look like the dark haze or cloud, with blurring vision or reduced vision.  Since retinal tears usually initiate the retinal detachment, please go to see your doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Please go to see doctor right way if there is progressive decreases in vision.