Introduction
Vitreous detachment is a natural age-related process that affects the vitreous humor—the clear gel that fills the inside of your eye. The vitreous gel helps maintain the shape of the eye and plays a role in focusing light onto the retina. As we age, the vitreous begins to shrink and pull away from the retina, which can lead to a condition called posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). Though it may sound concerning, vitreous detachment is a common occurrence, often affecting people over the age of 50.
In most cases, this condition doesn’t cause permanent damage, but it can be alarming when symptoms like eye floaters or flashes of light appear. Vitreous detachment is not usually dangerous, but if left unchecked, it can sometimes lead to more serious complications like retinal tears or detachment, which is why it’s important to seek medical advice.
What is Vitreous Detachment?
Vitreous detachment refers to the separation of the vitreous gel from the retina. The vitreous is a jelly-like substance that fills the eye, and it’s attached to the retina at certain points. Over time, typically after the age of 50, the vitreous begins to shrink and lose its gel-like consistency. It starts pulling away from the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for vision.
Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) is the most common form, and it happens when the vitreous separates from the back of the eye. Most people experience no symptoms, but some may notice changes in their vision, such as flashes of light or the appearance of floaters—small specks or threads that drift across their vision. Although this is a common, typically non-threatening condition, it’s important to monitor for complications that could lead to retinal tears or detachment.
Causes of Vitreous Detachment
The primary cause of vitreous detachment is aging. As people get older, the vitreous becomes more liquid, which causes it to shrink and detach from the retina. However, other factors can increase the risk of developing vitreous detachment: