Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) is a common, age-related eye condition in which the gel-like substance (vitreous) inside your eye shrinks and separates from the retina at the back of the eye. The vitreous helps maintain the shape of the eye and transmit light to the retina. Over time, it becomes more fluid-like, causing it to pull away from the retina. This process is painless and typically harmless, but in rare cases, it can lead to complications such as retinal tears or detachment, which require immediate medical attention.

PVD is a natural part of aging and is most common in people over 50. However, other factors can increase the likelihood of developing PVD earlier, including:

• Myopia (Nearsightedness) – People with myopia tend to have a longer eyeball, which can cause the vitreous to detach sooner.
• Eye Trauma or Injury – A direct hit to the eye can accelerate vitreous separation from the retina.
• Prior Eye Surgery – Procedures such as cataract surgery can increase the likelihood of PVD.
• Diabetes and Eye Disease – Conditions like diabetic retinopathy can affect the vitreous and retinal health.
• Having PVD in One Eye – If you experience PVD in one eye, there is a high likelihood that it will develop in the other eye within six to twelve months.

Since PVD occurs gradually, many people do not notice any symptoms. However, some individuals may experience:

• Floaters – Tiny specks, strings, or cobweb-like shapes that move across your vision. These occur when the shrinking vitreous forms clumps or strands that cast shadows on the retina.
• Flashes of Light – Quick, flickering lights in your peripheral vision, often appearing as brief bursts. This happens as the vitreous tugs on the retina during detachment.
• Blurred Vision – Mild blurriness may occur as the vitreous separates and moves inside the eye.

While PVD itself does not cause permanent vision loss, its symptoms can mimic those of a retinal tear or detachment. If you experience a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a dark curtain in your vision, seek immediate attention from an optometrist in Edmonton at Optometrists’ Clinic Inc.

While PVD is usually harmless, it’s important to have an eye exam in Edmonton to rule out any complications. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• A sudden increase in floaters
• Persistent or worsening flashes of light
• Blurred vision that does not improve
• A dark curtain or shadow in your peripheral vision

At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., our Edmonton optometrists provide comprehensive eye exams to diagnose and monitor PVD and ensure there are no retinal complications. Book your appointment today for expert eye care and peace of mind.