Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that can have a significant impact on vision if not addressed promptly. But what exactly causes a detached retina, what are the warning signs, and why is it more common among those with myopia? Here, we’ll explore these questions and introduce how the upcoming AX1 Axiometer from Occuity is set to transform myopia management, offering hope to those at risk.
What is a Detached Retina?
A detached retina happens when the retina — the thin layer of tissue at the back of your eye — pulls away from its normal position. This is critical because the retina is responsible for processing light and sending signals to the brain, enabling us to see. When the retina detaches, it can’t function properly, leading to vision loss if not treated urgently.
There are three main types of retinal detachment:
Rhegmatogenous Detachment: The most common type, it occurs when there’s a tear in the retina, allowing fluid to seep underneath, which separates it from the supportive layers beneath.
Tractional Detachment: This happens when scar tissue on the retina’s surface contracts and pulls it away from the back of the eye.
Exudative Detachment: This type doesn’t involve a tear. Instead, fluid accumulates beneath the retina due to other eye conditions, like inflammation.
Symptoms of Retinal Detachment
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice immediately:
Flashes of Light: Sudden and brief flashes of light in your vision.
Floaters: A noticeable increase in small spots or lines in your field of vision.
Shadows or a ‘Curtain’: A dark shadow or curtain-like effect may appear over a part of your vision.
Blurred Vision: A sudden drop in visual clarity.
What Causes Retinal Detachment?
There are several risk factors for retinal detachment:
Age: More common in people over 50.
Previous Eye Conditions: Those with a history of eye surgery or injuries are more at risk.
Family History: Genetics can play a role.
Severe Myopia: This is a key risk factor, and as myopia rates rise, so do retinal complications.
While age and past eye trauma are well-known risks, a significant concern today is myopia, which is on the rise globally.
Myopia and Retinal Detachment: What’s the Connection?
Myopia (or short-sightedness) occurs when the eyeball elongates, causing light to focus in front of the retina rather than on it. This elongation stretches the retina, making it thinner and more prone to tears or holes. It’s like taking a sheet of paper and pulling it at both ends—the paper (or retina) becomes more fragile.
This issue is particularly pressing because myopia, especially high myopia, significantly increases the risk of developing retinal problems. As the eye stretches, the risk of retinal detachment also rises, highlighting the need for early detection and careful monitoring.
How the AX1 Can Help Revolutionise Myopia Management in Children and Teenagers
With high myopia a significant cause of retinal detachment, responsible for 30% to 40% of all cases (source). This heightened risk stems from the elongation of the eye, which puts strain on the retina. Managing myopia early, especially in children and teenagers, is crucial to reducing the chances of developing high myopia and its complications in adulthood. That’s where the AX1 Axiometer comes in.
Precision and Early Detection for Proactive Care
The AX1 Axiometer precisely measures the axial length of the eye—essential for tracking how myopia progresses. By offering regular and accurate measurements, it allows clinicians to detect early changes and adjust treatment plans to slow down myopia progression.
Child-Friendly and Accessible Technology
The AX1 is designed with young patients in mind. It’s non-contact and easy to use, making the experience comfortable for children. This accessibility encourages regular monitoring, which is key to evaluating and adjusting treatments effectively.
Affordable and Scalable Solution
Unlike traditional devices, which are often large and costly, the AX1 is compact and cost-effective. This affordability allows more clinics to adopt it, expanding access to vital myopia management tools for more children and families.
By enabling regular, precise measurements and making the technology more accessible, the AX1 empowers clinicians to better manage myopia in children and teenagers, helping to reduce the risk of severe complications in the future.
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