What are the symptoms of a torn retina?

The symptoms of a torn retina, or retinal detachment, include eye floaters and eye flashes, blind spots or shadows in the field of vision, and sudden blurred vison, according to Mayo Clinic. The condition is painless.

A person experiencing a torn retina may see a curtain or shadow in his field of vision that worsens progressively, notes Mayo Clinic. Floaters may appear as small floating particles of debris, such as strings, hairs or spots. A torn retina is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical evaluation when symptoms occur, since vision can be permanently lost if the condition is left untreated.