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By Mayo Clinic staffThere's no way to prevent retinal detachment. However, being aware of the warning signs of a detached retina — an increased number of floaters, bright flashes of light, or a shadow or curtain that seems to fall across your visual field — could help save your vision. If you notice any of the warning signs of retinal detachment, particularly if you're over age 40, you or a family member has had a detached retina, or you're extremely nearsighted, contact your ophthalmologist immediately.
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