What is vitreous detachment?

Vitreous detachment is a condition where the gel-like fluid that fills the eye separates from the retina.

It is usually harmless and can cause floaters or flashes in your sight. In more serious cases, vitreous detachment can pull at the retina and cause it to tear or detach, which can lead to vision loss and needs treatment straight away.

What are the symptoms of vitreous detachment?

Over time, the fibres of the vitreous move around and clump together, forming floaters. The floaters cast a shadow on the retina, which may appear to the individual as a dust particle or a tiny insect floating in your vision. The vitreous sac may then pull away from the retina resulting in the sudden onset of flashing lights accompanying the floaters.

What are the causes of vitreous detachment?

Vitreous detachment may occur randomly or after eye surgery, physical trauma to the head or eye, or due to an inflammatory process.

When could vitreous detachment lead to potential vision loss?

If the vitreous pulls away from the retina with excessive force, a retinal hole or tear may result. This has the potential to progress to a retinal detachment, which can result in significant vision loss.

Seeing your doctor of optometry for a routine eye examination can help detect a vitreous detachment early, preventing small asymptomatic retinal holes, tears and detachments from progressing before you are even aware of them.

What is the treatment for vitreous detachment?

The appearance of flashes and floaters from a vitreous detachment can be more annoying than anything, but you should have your eyes examined by a doctor of optometry right away if you notice any sudden changes in vision, such as new floaters, flashes or light.