POSTERIOR VITREOUS DETACHMENT ("Floaters")
Posterior Vitreous Detachment
Floaters, Flashing Lights, and increased risk for Retinal Detachment
Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) is a common eye condition, a normal part of the aging process that typically happens around age 60. As the eye ages, the vitreous gel which fills the eye tends to get more liquid. The vitreous is in direct contact with the retina when we are young, but separates from the retina at the back of the eye when it becomes more liquid with age and moves more freely within the eye.
Symptoms of PVD generally include floaters or “lightning flashes.” If the PVD has caused secondary bleeding within the eye, vision can also be decreased. In some cases, PVD can cause a retinal tear, which can lead to a retinal detachment and loss of vision. While the symptoms are the same, the retinal tear can only be diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam. In most cases, PVD is more annoying than dangerous. No treatment is required for PVD if it is not associated with a retinal tear. However, your doctor will want to closely monitor your eyes to determine that no further damage has occurred. If a retinal tear or detachment is diagnosed, further treatment will most likely be necessary to prevent or minimize loss of vision. Always notify the eye doctor if there is any change in your symptoms or your vision, especially loss of peripheral vision. Some changes in the eye are a natural part of the aging process. If you have a PVD in one eye, it is very common to develop it in the second eye within one or two years. Injury to the eyes increases your risk of PVD. Be careful to protect your eyes, including wearing protective eyewear.
