Which symptom is a hallmark of retinal detachment?

• A. Sudden painless vision loss
• B. Eye pain with redness
• C. Chronic discharge
• D. Hearing loss

Answer: (A)

The key feature of retinal detachment is sudden, painless loss of vision in one eye. Patients often notice flashes of light or new floaters before the vision loss, and some describe a curtain or shadow sweeping across part of the visual field as the retina pulls away. This is a medical emergency because prompt treatment is needed to reattach the retina and preserve vision.

Eye pain with redness suggests inflammatory or infectious or acute angle-closure processes, not retinal detachment. Chronic discharge points more toward conjunctivitis or chronic lid disease. Hearing loss is unrelated to the retina and would indicate a different ENT or systemic issue.