What is Vitreous Degeneration?
Vitreous degeneration refers to the natural aging changes that occur in the vitreous humor, the gel-like fluid inside your eye. This degeneration can lead to symptoms such as floaters, flashes of light, and, in some cases, more serious issues like vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment. At Louisiana Eye & Laser, we diagnose and treat conditions related to the vitreous to help preserve your long-term vision.
What Does the Vitreous Do?
The vitreous fluid fills the space between the lens and the retina. It gives the eye its shape and helps hold the retina in place by applying gentle pressure. While it plays a vital role in eye structure, the vitreous also changes over time due to aging and other factors.
What Happens During Vitreous Degeneration?
As you age, the vitreous begins to shrink and become more liquid. This natural process can lead to a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), where the gel separates from the retina. This can cause:
A sudden increase in floaters
Flashes of light in your peripheral vision
Vision changes or blurriness
While often harmless, these symptoms can signal more serious problems if left unchecked. Learn more about related symptoms on our Floaters & Flashers page.
Common Vitreous-Related Conditions
Vitreous Detachment
Vitreous detachment occurs when the shrinking vitreous pulls away from the retina. You may notice more floaters or brief light flashes. Most people recover without serious vision loss, but regular eye exams are important to monitor changes.
Vitreous Hemorrhage
This condition occurs when blood leaks into the vitreous. It may result from trauma, diabetic retinopathy, or retinal tears. Symptoms include blurred vision, dark spots, or sudden vision loss. Treatment depends on severity and may involve laser procedures, medication, or surgery.
Retinal Detachment
Sometimes the vitreous pulls too hard and tears the retina. Fluid can then pass through the tear and separate the retina from the back of the eye. This is a medical emergency that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated right away. Learn more on our Retinal Detachment page.
Flashers and Floaters
Floaters look like drifting spots or threads in your vision and are caused by clumps of collagen in the vitreous. Flashes occur when the vitreous tugs on the retina. These symptoms are common in patients over 50 and may indicate posterior vitreous detachment.
Sudden changes in these symptoms may signal a serious issue and should be evaluated promptly by an eye doctor. Visit our Eye Flashes page for more information.
Can You Prevent Vitreous Degeneration?
You cannot stop the natural aging of the eye, but you can stay ahead of problems with routine checkups. Eye exams allow your doctor to spot early warning signs and protect your vision. Be on the lookout for:
New floaters
Flashes of light
Loss of peripheral vision
A shadow or curtain across your field of view
These symptoms may indicate retinal detachment or vitreous hemorrhage, which require urgent treatment. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, prompt evaluation is key to preserving vision.
Vitreous Care at Louisiana Eye and Laser
For over 40 years, our team at Louisiana Eye & Laser has been helping patients across Louisiana maintain healthy vision. If you are experiencing flashes, floaters, or vision changes, we are here to help.
Our team uses advanced imaging technology to monitor changes in the vitreous and retina and provide effective care. We tailor every treatment plan to your individual needs and offer follow-up support at our 14 convenient locations.
Schedule an appointment today and let us help you protect your eyesight for the future.
