Who is at risk from a detached retina?
Although detached retina affects only about one person per 10,000, it is more common in middle-aged people and those who are very short-sighted. If you have a detached retina in one eye, the risk of developing one in the other eye is increased. Very rarely, younger people can have a weakness of the retina, or it can be detached as a result of a blow to the eye or head. Retinal detachment can also occur as a result of laser refractive surgery (LASIK) but this is a rare complication. Cataract surgery, ocular tumours and diabetic eye disease are other possible causes. What can be done? A detached retina needs urgent medical attention. The sooner the retina is reattached, the better the chances of regaining vision. With early help, it may only be necessary to have laser or freezing treatment. This is a simple procedure usually performed under a local anaesthetic. Often, however, an operation to repair the hole in the retina will be needed. This does not usually cause pain, but the eye will
