Led by a medical team, including Dr. Cameron Javid, Retina Associates provides the latest care in diagnosing and managing eye diseases involving the retina, vitreous, and macula. Located in Tucson, Arizona, the specialists at Retina Associates treat patients with a wide range of conditions, including macular degeneration as well as retinal tears and detachment.

A retinal tear occurs when the thin, light-sensitive tissue in the eye responsible for vision is damaged. Severe or untreated retinal tears can ultimately lead to retinal detachment and permanent loss of vision, among other significant health complications.

Often caused by aging, a retinal tear puts individuals at increased risk for posterior vitreous detachment, although physical trauma to the eye can also lead to a tear. Additional risk factors range from myopia, or nearsightedness, to prior ocular surgery. A family history of retinal tears or detachment can also be a factor.

Black spots, known as floaters, are among the telltale signs of a tear, as are flashes of light. Both floaters and photopsia (flashes of light) are common occurrences in healthy eyes, but a sudden onset may be an indication of an issue with the retina. If the condition progresses to retinal detachment or involves vitreous hemorrhage, a person may notice shadows in their peripheral vision or experience blurry vision. Any of these symptoms should prompt an immediate visit to a retina specialist. Otherwise, individuals risk permanent vision loss. Fortunately, successful treatment is available, including office-based laser and surgery if required. Please see a retinal specialist asap if you have these symptoms.