Which of the following is a common cause of visual impairment and blindness?

Retinal detachment is indeed a common cause of visual impairment and blindness. This condition occurs when the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, separates from its underlying supportive tissue. Retinal detachment can lead to severe vision loss if not treated promptly, as it disrupts the retina's ability to process visual information. Risk factors for this condition include age, previous eye surgery or injury, and certain eye diseases.

In contrast, the other options pertain to conditions that do not typically lead to visual impairment in the same way. Otitis media primarily affects hearing and is related to ear infections. Heat cramps are muscle cramps due to overheating, and trismus refers to restricted jaw movement, which is unrelated to vision. Thus, retinal detachment is the option that directly relates to significant visual impairment and the potential for blindness.