Any reduction in your ability to see, including blurring, double vision, and/or seeing flashing lights or floating spots should be checked by your eye doctor. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina lifts away from the choroid, (a layer of blood vessels beneath the retina which provides the retina with nutrients and oxygen). A hole in the retina causes the detachment in most cases. Both eyes may be affected, but rarely at the same time. The only symptoms are abnormalities of vision in the affected eye. The first sign of a detached retina may be flashes of light, which often occur shortly before a hole is formed in the retina. Floating, black, often cobweb-like shapes may be seen when the hole is actually formed. If detachment continues unchecked, the loss of vision spreads. If you experience any of the symptoms described, see your doctor without delay.

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