Because the underlying disorder that causes retinal tears may occur in both eyes, your ophthalmologist will want to examine both eyes thoroughly. Your other eye may also have retinal deterioration or other problems that require treatment. Examination with dilated pupils and an indirect ophthalmoscope (a device that is mounted on special headgear) enables the doctor to determine the extent of the detachment, the location of any holes or tears, and the best way to treat the problem. Some retinal tears don't require treatment, especially if they are old. But most cases of retinal detachment call for surgery to reposition the separated retina against the back wall of the eye.
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Dr. Ivan A. Schwab, MD , Ophthalmology, answered on behalf of American Academy of Ophthalmology's EyeSmartShe should choose glasses and be thankful that she didn't lose her sight or require corneal transplant for the scar. If she insists on wearing them anyway, at least switch to gas-permeable lenses which have a somewhat lower risk, but never, never sleep in the lenses. But, my best advice is to stop wearing contact lenses altogether. She has a long life ahead with only the one pair of eyes. -
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Johns Hopkins Medicine answeredSee All 2 AnswersTo diagnose keratitis, cultures are taken from the cornea. Sometimes a biopsy needs to be performed.
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Dr. David R. Demartini, MD , Ophthalmology, answeredSee All 3 AnswersHerpes Simplex keratitis (corneal inflammation) is a very common viral infection of the cornea. It predominantly involves just one eye. When it starts it is usually only on the surface of the cornea and is easiest to treat in this condition. Currently, there are a variety of topically applied drops and ointments that have proven to be very effective in discouraging the virus.
Once a patient is found to have Herpes Simplex keratitis, their eye is at risk for recurrent infections for the rest of their life. Because the virus usually lives dormant in the brain and spinal chord it can come out onto the cornea at any time. Stresses from other illness, emotions, trauma, intense sunlight or antiinflammatory steroids can lead to recurrent outbreaks of this virus. Hence they should be avoided as best possible to help prevent recurrences. The Herpes Eye Disease Study (HEDS) found that oral antiherpes medications can be very effective in preventing further outbreaks in patients that have had two or more recurrences in one year. A good diet, regular rest, and healthy lifestyle also seem to help prevent recurrences. Because the presentation of Herpes keratitis can be confusing lab tests and the clinical exam can be helpful to clarify the diagnosis. -
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See All 2 AnswersA clear gel called vitreous (vit-ree-us) fills the middle of the eye. As we get older, the vitreous may pull away from its attachment to the retina at the back of the eye.
Usually the vitreous separates from the retina without causing problems. But sometimes the vitreous pulls hard enough to tear the retina in one or more places. Fluid may pass through the retinal tear, lifting the retina off the back of the eye, much as wallpaper can peel off a wall.
The following conditions increase the chance of having a retinal detachment:- Nearsightedness
- Previous cataract surgery
- Glaucoma
- Severe injury
- Previous retinal detachment in your other eye
- Family history of retinal detachment
- Weak areas in your retina that can be seen by your ophthalmologist (Eye M.D.)
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See All 5 AnswersRetinal detachment symptoms involve seeing a dark curtain, shade or shadow in your vision. A precursor may be any increase in floaters or flashes which requires a dilated eye exam to rule out a detached retina or torn retina. -
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See All 2 AnswersSometimes vision improves after surgery for a detached retina, but it can take up to six months or more depending on the type of retinal detachment to obtain the final vision.
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See All 2 AnswersIf a chemical gets in the eyes, rinse the eyes thoroughly with water for 5 to 10 minutes without stopping, prior to seeking medical care. Read the label on the chemical to see if there are any special instructions. Also, you can call the poison control center with any questions. Seek medical attention for a thorough examination after rinsing the eyes at home. -
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Retinal detachment does not affect your body just the eye and includes painless loss of vision.
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If your child gets poked in the eye with an object he or she should be evaluated by a medical professional, unless there is virtually no pain, redness or change in vision. Common eye injuries include abrasions (scratches) or the presence of a foreign body. More serious is a true cut or puncture of the eye itself. Also, the eye can bleed internally, which requires urgent medical attention.