Which of the following are risk factors for retinal detachment?

• A. Myopia, seeing flashing spots, recent intraocular surgery, direct eye trauma, peripheral retinal holes, history of retinal degeneration
• B. Hyperopia and regular exercise
• C. Glaucoma only
• D. Night blindness

Answer: (A)

Retinal detachment risk rises when the retina is predisposed to tearing or separation due to structural or traumatic changes. Myopia stretches and thins the peripheral retina, increasing susceptibility to tears. Seeing flashing lights (photopsia) often signals vitreoretinal traction or a tear that can precede detachment, so it’s a warning sign rather than a separate condition. Recent intraocular surgery and direct eye trauma can alter the vitreous-retina relationship or create breaks, raising the chance of detachment. Peripheral retinal holes are actual breaks in the retina that can let fluid accumulate under the retina, promoting detachment. A history of retinal degeneration indicates prior retinal damage that makes detachment more likely.

In contrast, hyperopia does not typically increase RD risk, regular exercise is not a risk factor, glaucoma alone doesn’t raise RD risk, and night blindness is unrelated to retinal detachment.