Vitreous Detachment: Symptoms, Treatment, and Eye Care Tips

Q: Vitreous Detachment: Symptoms, Treatment, and Eye Care Tips

Hello： 1. <br>Vitreous detachment and opacities are typically not caused by age, but rather due to the aggregation of proteins or fibrous changes within the vitreous body. <br>While aging may increase the risk of occurrence, it is not the sole cause. <br>2. <br>In most cases, mil

Vitreous body

1.
Is vitreous detachment and opacification primarily a result of the aging process leading to vitreous degeneration?
2.
Does vitreous detachment require treatment? Under what circumstances is treatment necessary? How can one maintain eye health?
3.
Can a fundus photograph determine if there are any peripheral retinal tears or detachments, or is a dilated fundus examination necessary? (The doctor mentioned there were no issues with the retina, but I am still concerned about potential undetected peripheral problems.)
4.
Can a fundus photograph detect lattice degeneration of the retina, or is a dilated fundus examination required?
5.
At 19 years old, I was diagnosed with elevated intraocular pressure and underwent visual field testing at a major hospital, which showed no issues.
However, the doctor recommended continuing medication to prevent glaucoma.
The clinic doctor stated that the visual field test was fine and believed that I did not need to take so much medication.
What is the medical opinion on whether I should continue using intraocular pressure-lowering medication? What effects does continued use have on the eyes? (I have been using it for about five years, and my eyes are often very dry; I sometimes also use an eye drop for dryness.)
6.
The doctor at the major hospital prescribed an eye drop for dryness and a red fatigue drop, stating they are for maintenance and can be used regularly.
Is it safe to use these drops frequently?

Ms. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/27

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: 1.
Vitreous detachment and opacities are typically not caused by age, but rather due to the aggregation of proteins or fibrous changes within the vitreous body.
While aging may increase the risk of occurrence, it is not the sole cause.
2.
In most cases, mild vitreous detachment does not require specific treatment, as it may be a natural age-related change.
However, if symptoms such as a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a significant decrease in vision occur, you should seek an ophthalmological examination immediately.
Maintaining good eye health by avoiding vigorous shaking and head movements, as well as maintaining proper posture, is advisable.
3.
Fundus photography can assess certain retinal issues, but it may not fully reveal conditions in the peripheral retina.
If you are concerned about retinal tears or detachment, a dilated eye exam can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the eye's condition.
4.
Retinal lattice degeneration may require more detailed examinations, such as a dilated fundus exam, to determine the extent and severity of the lesions.
5.
In cases of elevated intraocular pressure, an ophthalmologist may recommend the use of intraocular pressure-lowering medications to prevent the development of glaucoma.
Continuous use of these medications can reduce intraocular pressure, thereby decreasing the risk of glaucoma.
If you have concerns about long-term medication use, it is advisable to discuss them with your ophthalmologist to make decisions based on your specific situation.
Long-term use of medications may affect dryness in the eyes, and in such cases, the use of artificial tears can help alleviate symptoms.
6.
It is generally fine to use as usual.

Reply Date: 2023/08/27

More Info

Understanding vitreous detachment is crucial, especially for individuals with high myopia, as they are at a higher risk for various eye conditions. Here’s a comprehensive overview addressing your concerns regarding vitreous detachment, its symptoms, treatment, and eye care tips.

1. Vitreous Detachment and Aging: Yes, vitreous detachment is often a natural part of the aging process. As we age, the vitreous gel, which fills the eye, can begin to liquefy and shrink, leading to separation from the retina. This process can cause symptoms such as floaters (the "flying mosquitoes" you mentioned) and flashes of light. While age is a significant factor, high myopia can accelerate this process due to the elongation of the eyeball, which can lead to earlier vitreous changes.

2. Treatment for Vitreous Detachment: Generally, vitreous detachment itself does not require treatment unless it is associated with complications such as retinal tears or detachment. If you experience sudden increases in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your peripheral vision, you should seek immediate medical attention. Regular monitoring by an eye care professional is essential, especially for those with high myopia. Maintaining eye health through regular check-ups and protecting your eyes from trauma can help manage your condition.

3. Eye Examinations and Retinal Health: A standard fundus examination (eye bottom photo) can provide valuable information about the retina, but it may not always reveal peripheral retinal tears or detachments. A dilated eye exam (using eye drops to widen the pupils) is often more effective for a thorough assessment of the peripheral retina. If your doctor has indicated that your retina appears healthy, that is reassuring, but if you have ongoing concerns, discussing further testing options with your eye care provider is advisable.

4. Retinal Grid Changes: Retinal grid-like changes can sometimes be detected during a standard eye examination, but again, a dilated exam is more comprehensive. If there are specific concerns about retinal health, your doctor may recommend additional imaging tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), which can provide detailed images of the retina.

5. Management of Eye Pressure and Glaucoma Prevention: Given your history of high eye pressure and the recommendation to continue using eye drops to manage this, it is essential to follow your doctor’s advice. Regular monitoring of your intraocular pressure (IOP) and visual field tests are crucial in preventing glaucoma. If your eye care provider believes that the benefits of continued medication outweigh potential side effects, it is wise to adhere to their recommendations. Long-term use of certain eye drops can lead to dryness, which you mentioned experiencing. Discussing this with your doctor can help find a balance between managing eye pressure and alleviating dryness.

6. Use of Eye Drops: The eye drops prescribed by your doctor, including the antibiotic and those for fatigue, can generally be used as directed. However, it is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding frequency and duration of use. Overusing certain medications can lead to side effects, so if you have concerns about dryness or irritation, discussing alternative options with your eye care provider is advisable.

In summary, while vitreous detachment is often a benign condition, it requires careful monitoring, especially in individuals with high myopia. Regular eye exams, maintaining eye health, and adhering to prescribed treatments are crucial for preserving vision and preventing complications. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional for personalized advice.

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