Retina Center of Arkansas is here to help you preserve and repair your sight so that you can see the world. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and personal care to our patients in Northwest Arkansas. 

Dr. John DellaCroce is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained vitreoretinal microsurgeon who specializes in treating diseases involving the retina, vitreous, and macula. He provides state-of-the-art, high-quality eye care to patients in Northwest Arkansas.

What Is a Retinal Tear?

A retinal detachment occurs when the retina, the part of the eye that helps organize visual information, is pulled away from its normal position of lining the inside of the eyewall. The retina no longer works when it’s detached, and the vision will be completely blurred. Without treatment, retinal detachment can lead to irreversible vision loss. A retinal tear, or retinal hole, can lead to detachment. A retinal tear may lead to fluid and blood collecting in the eye.

Symptoms of a Retinal Tear

Common retinal tear symptoms include flashes of light disrupting your vision, as well as visible spots called floaters. Retinal tears can develop and progress quickly when left untreated, eventually leading to detachment. Other common symptoms to be aware of include:

• Headache
• Sudden increase in size and number of floaters in your vision
• Seeing a shadow appear in your peripheral (side) field of vision
• Sudden appearance of light flashes, which could be the first stage of a retinal tear or detachment
• Seeing a gray curtain slowly moving across your field of vision
• Sudden decrease in vision, including focusing trouble and blurred vision

Risk Factors for Retinal Tears

You may be at increased risk of developing a retinal tear for a variety of reasons. It’s essential to seek treatment immediately if you’ve experienced symptoms because it could mean permanent vision loss. Potential causes for retinal tears include:

• Aging
• Eye trauma
• Genetics
• Nearsightedness
• Previous eye surgery

How Are Retinal Tears Diagnosed?

Dr. DellaCroce can diagnose a retinal tear via a retinal examination, which shouldn’t last more than five minutes. This exam helps him detect eye diseases or other issues that could affect your vision, such as a retinal tear.

Seek Treatment for Retinal Problems

If you suspect that you may have a retinal hole in either eye, schedule an appointment with Dr. DellaCroce. Retina Center of Arkansas provides comprehensive eye care for patients throughout Benton County. Schedule an appointment today to receive a consultation and any information for potential treatment.