Vitreous Detachment

Vitreous detachment is a condition of the eye that arises when the vitreous humour detaches itself from the retina. When this happens, sight disorders occur such as light flashes and eye floaters. Although vitreous detachment does not normally lead to sight problems in the long term, the chances of retinal detachment are slightly raised, which can lead to vision loss. The condition is quite common, especially in older people, with approximately 75% of those people over the age of 65 experiencing symptoms at some stage.

The eye itself is filled with a gel-like substance called the vitreous humour. Consisting of 99% water and 1% proteins and collagen, it helps the eye to maintain shape. In time, this gel becomes increasingly more fluid, maybe leading to shrinkage in the gel, and as a result, the outer area of the gel may become detached from the retina.

Light flashes are very common in those that suffer vitreous detachment, occurring following the stimulation of the retina as the gel pulls away. Eye floaters are formed as a result of the changes to the gel viscosity, causing small specks that cast shadows on the retina.

Vitreous detachment alone is not dangerous, and does not lead to a loss in vision. Following initial detachment, a sudden rush of light flashes and vitreous floaters is commonplace. The rate of these symptoms usually decreases within 6 months, although the majority of people will still experience low levels of flashes and floaters. In some cases, vitreous detachment may cause the retina to tear, and if not treated, may lead to retinal detachment, which could mean temporary, or even permanent loss of vision.

In general, it is not necessary to treat vitreous detachment, and although eye floaters and flashes can be irritating, they are not harmful. Even so, care should be taken to monitor the condition for any signs of retinal tears or retinal detachment, which include symptoms such as a darkening of vision in the affected eye, or a sudden increase in the frequency of flashes and floaters. If noticed, prompt treatment from a qualified medical practitioner should be obtained.

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Retinal Detachment Symptoms

Located in the retina are cells that are sensitive to light and some that pass nerve impulses to the brain. If the retina detaches from the back of the eye, vision is severely affected. There are various reasons why detachment occurs such as injury to the eye, myopia (short-sightedness), eye surgery, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma or eye tumours. Given that retinal detachments can seriously impair vision, it is vital that professional medical attention is provided immediately, if any of the following retinal detachment symptoms are experienced. Symptoms may include flashes, floaters, shadows that affect peripheral vision and a curtain effect across the field of vision.

Flashing Lights

Flashes are impressions of bright lights at the field of vision border, normally affecting one eye at a time. When the vitreous humour, the clear gel within the eyeball shrinks or tugs the retina, the resulting pressure applied to the retina nerve cells causes the flashes. If the pulling is strong enough, the retina can detach or tear. A visit to the relevant medical professionals is essential if these flashes increase in number or incidence.

Floaters

Floaters are tiny black dots, lines or cobweb-like shapes that may appear in the field of vision. This debris floats around in the vitreous humour. If the floaters increase in number or if floater numbers increase added to new flashes, an eye examination should be carried out immediately, as these symptoms indicate an increased chance of a retinal tear or detachment.

Field Of Vision Changes

If the retina detaches from the back of the eye, changes to the field of vision will occur that correspond to the area of the retina affected. This frequently will resemble a curtain or shadow moving into the field of vision, usually entering from the top or from the side. Once again, if these symptoms are experienced, an immediate eye assessment is vital.

Although rare, a retinal detachment may occur without warning, so any signs of sight impairment should be investigated.

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