Which symptom is typical of retinal detachment?

• A. Gradual loss of central vision over months.
• B. Sudden, painless vision loss.
• C. Severe eye pain with tearing and redness.
• D. Double vision with discharge.

Answer: (B)

Retinal detachment is an acute, vision-threatening event where the retina pulls away from its supportive layer. The hallmark symptom is a sudden, painless loss of vision in one eye, often accompanied by new floaters or flashes of light and sometimes described as a curtain advancing over the field of view. This painless, abrupt change contrasts with other eye problems that cause pain or slower progression. For example, gradual loss of central vision over months points to macular diseases like age-related macular degeneration, while severe eye pain with tearing and redness fits conditions such as acute glaucoma or uveitis. Diplopia with discharge suggests a surface or alignment issue rather than retinal detachment. Because retinal detachment requires urgent surgical repair to restore vision, seek prompt ophthalmologic evaluation if sudden unilateral vision loss occurs.