OT: Detached retina

[smart1]

I know that this is off topic but I wanted to pass along some information about eye health.

I am recovering from a detached retina in my right eye. It happened spontaneously a couple of weeks ago. I didn't know that it had happened because I didn't know the symptoms. So, here they are:

1. bright flashes of light in the eye
2. large floaters in the eye
3. obscured vision or shadows

If left untreated the retina may fully detach and all vision will be lost in that eye.

I waited a week until I went to the doctor. I had to have surgery (general anesthesia) and two procedures in the doctor's office to fully reattach the retina. I am doing well now after two weeks of recovery.

The people who are most at risk are:
1. very near-sighted
2. over 40 years old
3. male
4. caucasian

Once you have had a detached retina you have a one in twelve chance of it happening again. Not good odds.

I just wanted to pass along the information. I hope that it was helpful. Now back to your regularly scheduled board.

[mo4wo1]

Thank you!

[LookingUp]

At age 16, my youngest step son grew 13 inches in one year - he "outgrew" his retina and it detached - or possibly it was loosened during high school wrestling. The doctor didn't see him for several weeks and the surgery could not fully restore the vision. He can see light and dark and a few outlines of objects - he has tunnel vision.

If you think you may be having a retina detach, please, please go to the emergency room or see your doctor within 24 hours so your vision can be saved.

I've had my retina tacked by lazer surgery because I had some holes and we lived remote so the MD knew we couldn't get there within 24 hours if it would have detached.

LookingUp