Posterior Vitreous Detachments

The vitreous is a clear, gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina in the eye. As we age, the vitreous gradually becomes less gel-like and more liquid, and can sometimes detach from the retina. This is known as a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).

PVDs are common in people over the age of 50, but can occur in younger people as well. They are more common in people who are nearsighted, have had cataract surgery, or have had trauma to the eye.

Symptoms of PVDs include:

• Floaters: These are small, dark shapes that float across your field of vision. They may look like specks, strings, or cobwebs.

• Flashing lights: You may see flashing lights, like lightning bolts or sparkles, in your peripheral vision.

• Blurred vision: You may have blurry vision or difficulty seeing fine details.

It's important to note that PVDs are usually not serious and do not require treatment. However, if you experience any sudden changes in your vision, such as a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light, you should see an eye doctor immediately. These symptoms could be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment, which is a more serious condition that requires prompt treatment.

Your eye doctor can diagnose a PVD with a comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated eye exam. During this exam, your eye doctor will use special instruments to look inside your eye and check for any signs of a retinal tear or detachment.

If you have a PVD, your eye doctor will usually recommend that you come back for follow-up exams to make sure your retina is staying healthy. They may also give you advice on how to manage your symptoms, such as avoiding sudden head movements that can cause floaters to move across your vision.

During the first few weeks after an acute PVD, you are at an increased risk of developing a retinal tear or detachment. Close observation will be performed by your doctor. If you experience signs or symptoms of a retinal tear such as a sudden onset of floaters, flashes or a cloud, veil or curtain in your vision, seek urgent evaluation from your eye doctor. If a retinal tear or detachment happens, your eye doctor may recommend treatment such as laser surgery or a vitrectomy, which is a surgery to remove the vitreous and replace it with a saline solution.

In conclusion, PVDs are a common condition that usually do not require treatment. However, if you experience any sudden changes in your vision, it's important to see an eye doctor immediately to rule out more serious conditions such as a retinal tear or detachment.