If you have a family history of retinal detachment, it’s important to be aware of the potential risk and to take steps to protect your eye health. While having a family history of retinal detachment is a risk factor for developing the condition, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you will develop it.
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, the thin layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye, separates from its underlying layer of support tissues. This can lead to vision loss or even blindness if not treated promptly. While retinal detachment can occur at any age, it is more common in people over age 40, and those with certain underlying medical conditions, such as nearsightedness, diabetes, or a history of eye injury or surgery.
If you have a family history of retinal detachment, it’s recommended that you have regular eye exams to monitor your eye health. During an eye exam, your eye doctor will check the retina for signs of damage or detachment.
There are several steps you can take to protect your eye health and reduce your risk of developing retinal detachment:
Get regular eye exams: As mentioned, regular eye exams are important for detecting signs of retinal detachment early. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults have a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years, starting at age 40, and more frequently if you have a family history of eye disease.
Know your family history: If you have a family history of retinal detachment or other eye diseases, inform your eye doctor. This information can help them monitor your eye health more closely and make recommendations for preventative measures.
Manage underlying medical conditions: If you have underlying medical conditions such as nearsightedness, diabetes, or high blood pressure, it’s important to manage these conditions to reduce your risk of developing retinal detachment.
Protect your eyes: Wear protective eyewear when engaging in activities that could cause eye injury, such as playing sports or doing home improvement projects.
Seek prompt treatment for any eye injuries: If you experience an eye injury, seek prompt medical attention to reduce your risk of developing retinal detachment.
If you have a family history of retinal detachment, it’s important to be aware of the potential risk and to take steps to protect your eye health. Regular eye exams, managing underlying medical conditions, and protecting your eyes from injury can all help reduce the risk of developing retinal detachment or other eye diseases.
At The Eye Center- Dr. Mahnaz Naveed Shah & Associates our team of eight ophthalmology subspecialists/ eye specialists, eye surgeons who are considered amongst the very best eye specialists in Karachi and in Pakistan, have the diagnostic and treatment capabilities to treat from the simplest to the most complex patients. We work hard to provide our patients with the best possible medical and surgical eye care, in a state of the art purpose built eye care facility. We offer the entire array of medical, laser and surgical treatments to help provide patients the best possible care in the most efficient, safe and ethical manner.
If you need an appointment, please contact us at 03041119544 during our working hours or leave us a WhatsApp message at +923028291799 and someone will connect with you. Walk-in appointments are also available for emergencies. We can also be reached through our web portal on www.surgicaleyecenter.org
