What are the symptoms of retinal detachment?

Sudden flashes of light and floaters, along with moderate to severe vision loss, are classic symptoms of retinal detachment. When the retina detaches from the underlying tissue, it can stimulate the photoreceptor cells, causing flashes of light that may be perceived even in the absence of external light. The presence of floaters, which are tiny spots or lines that move across the visual field, occurs as the vitreous gel shrinks and pulls away from the retina. As the detachment progresses, individuals may experience a significant loss of peripheral or central vision, which can manifest as a curtain or shadow obscuring part of the visual field. Recognizing these symptoms promptly is vital, as retinal detachment is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent irreversible vision loss.