Retinal (RET-in-al) detachment is a serious eye problem that can lead to impaired vision or blindness unless treated early. The retina (RET-in-ah) is a thin tissue of light-sensitive nerve fibers in the back of the eye that transmits images to the brain. Retinal detachments are usually caused by tears (TAIRS) or holes in the retina. Once a tear occurs, fluid leaks and flows between the retina and the eye’s back wall, which detach the retina. The retina no longer functions and causes a blur or blind spot in the vision. A detachment often begins with obvious symptoms, like black spots, flashes of light, wavy or watery vision, or a shadowy area in the side vision. There may also be sudden, total loss of vision in the affected eye. The appearance of any of these symptoms does not always indicate a serious problem, but an eye care specialist should be consulted. Several treatments exist, depending on the severity of the problem, including surgical repair, laser treatment, and freezing the back of the eye behind the tear in a procedure called cryopexy (CRY-oh-pex-ee). If symptoms of retinal detachment develop, seek immediate medical attention from an eye care specialist. This information is not intended to be a substitute for diagnosis or medical care. Consult a licensed health care provider for further information.