The initial symptoms are usually a sudden increase in either the number of floaters, which are little “cobwebs” or specks that float about in your field of vision, and/or light flashes in the eye.

Another symptom is the appearance of a curtain over your field of vision. A retinal detachment is a medical emergency. If you experience the symptoms of a retinal detachment, you should see an ophthalmologist immediately. If too much time lapses, the chances of successfully repairing the retina through surgery will be lower, and you may develop permanent vision loss.