Retinal detachments are in most cases caused due to the presence of small tears or holes in the retina. Thinning and deterioration of the retina can at times occur naturally as a result of aging. In most cases however the deterioration and tears are caused due to shrinking of the vitreous body, which is the clear gel like substance, filling the center of the eye. This condition is a risk for those who are nearsighted or, as in your case, if family members have also suffered retinal detachments. Retinal detachment can also be caused due to trauma such as a severe blow to the eye, a contusion or a penetrating wound. As mentioned above, changes in the vitreous body due to aging or inflammation of the interior eye are more causative. In some cases however retinal detachment may also be caused due to certain diseases like severe inflammations, tumors, or complications of diabetes. In such cases it is referred to as secondary detachment and tears or holes in the retina have little to do with the condition. Treatment of the disease itself is the only hope for a return to normalcy.
Since you are worried about developing retinal detachment, and with good reason, it would certainly be wise to keep yourself well informed about the symptoms. This is of particular importance as the most important preventive measure and treatment would be prompt detection of the warning signs. Here are the symptoms:
- The sudden appearance of dark or semi-transparent floating specks in your field of vision.
- You may also experience brief and bright flashes of light that are most pronounced when moving your eyes in the dark.
- A loss of central or peripheral vision.
There is no real preventive strategy that you can follow and the only precaution is to be on guard and respond promptly to warning signs. If you notice any of the mentioned symptoms contact your ophthalmologist immediately. At times retinal detachment can be prevented if the tear is detected prior to detachment. At other times too, prompt treatment to close a tear facilitates reattachment of the retina. Periodic eye check ups are the best safety measure if you are at risk of retinal detachment, whether due to a family history or a disease like diabetes.
answered by S D