The short answer
A detached retina is an emergency. If you suddenly see flashes of light, a shower of new floaters, or a shadow or curtain moving across your vision, go to an eye emergency service the same day, without waiting for a booked appointment. Treatment is surgery to reattach the retina, and the sooner it is done the better the chance of saving sight.
See eye doctors in KadunaMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
The warning signs
Go the same day if you notice any of these, in one eye or both:
- Flashes of light, especially at the edge of your vision
- A sudden shower of new floaters: dots, lines or cobwebs
- A dark shadow or curtain spreading across part of your sight
- Sudden blurring of sight that does not clear when you blink
Do not wait to see if it settles
Many people wait a few days, hoping it will pass, or travel home to the village first to discuss it with the family. With a detached retina, delay can be the difference between saving the centre of your sight and losing it. Call a relative from the clinic, not before you go.
If it is after hours, go to the nearest hospital eye emergency service in Kaduna. Do not wait for an online slot.
Who is at higher risk
Retinal detachment is more likely in people who are very short sighted, have had cataract or other eye surgery, have had an eye injury, have had a detachment in the other eye, or have advanced diabetic eye disease.
What treatment involves
A small tear found before the retina detaches can often be sealed with laser or freezing treatment in clinic. Once the retina has detached, it needs an operation. The surgeon may remove the gel inside the eye and fill it with a gas bubble or oil that holds the retina in place, or stitch a small band to the outside of the eye.
After surgery with gas you may be asked to keep your head in a set position for some days, and you must not fly or travel to high altitude until the bubble has gone, because it expands with altitude. If you have travelled to Kaduna for surgery, plan to go home by road, and only when your surgeon agrees.
Where to be seen in Kaduna on Mezo
Request an eye appointment in Kaduna through Mezo. The care team arranges it with a consultant ophthalmologist and confirms where and when, or you can see an eye doctor by video first.
Common questions
Are all floaters dangerous?
No. Many people have a few long-standing floaters, and they are harmless. What matters is a sudden change: a new shower of floaters, flashes, or a shadow. That needs checking the same day.
Can a detached retina heal by itself?
No. A detached retina does not reattach on its own. Without treatment, sight in that eye is usually lost.
Is retinal detachment surgery done in Kaduna?
Yes. Mezo's Kaduna eye practice treats retinal detachment. If you have symptoms now, do not wait to book: go to an eye emergency service today.
Will my HMO cover emergency eye surgery?
Eligible plans can cover it. On Mezo the desk files the prior authorisation with your HMO, but never delay emergency treatment while waiting for approval.
Related health guides
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Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Detached retina (retinal detachment). NHS. Patient information.
- Floaters and flashes in the eyes. NHS. Patient information.
- Detached Retina. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Patient information.
Links last checked 23 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.