Vitreous traction on the retina can cause the appearance of numerous blood-like strands in the visual field. After laser treatment, will the blood-like strands in the visual field disappear?
Dear Dr.
Wang,
I hope this message finds you well.
I have always had excellent vision and have never experienced any discomfort in my eyes.
However, on the evening of December 3rd, I noticed a flash of light in my left eye accompanied by a dense web of red thread-like objects obstructing my vision, although my visual acuity remained unaffected.
The following day, I visited the hospital outpatient clinic, where the doctor diagnosed it as a vitreous detachment causing traction on the retina and performed laser treatment immediately.
After the laser procedure, the flash phenomenon improved, but the dense web of red thread-like objects did not decrease; instead, it transformed from a single plane into multiple planes, causing me significant concern.
I would like to ask Dr.
Wang the following questions:
1.
I read that the flash phenomenon improves once the vitreous has completely detached from the retina, but will the dense web of red thread-like objects gradually decrease or disappear?
2.
Is it possible that my condition indicates the presence of a retinal tear or hole? The outpatient doctors did not inform me of this.
I appreciate your prompt response, Dr.
Wang.
Thank you!
Wen, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/07
Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology
If it is a vitreous hemorrhage, it will gradually be absorbed and decrease over the course of several weeks.
It could be due to a tear, so be sure to ask your doctor during your next follow-up appointment.
Reply Date: 2015/12/07
More Info
Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your eye condition following vitreous detachment and laser treatment. It’s understandable to feel concerned about changes in your vision, especially when experiencing symptoms like flashes of light and the appearance of blood-like floaters.
1. Will the blood-like floaters decrease or disappear?
After a vitreous detachment, it's common for patients to experience floaters, which can appear as spots, strands, or even a curtain-like shadow in the field of vision. These floaters are typically caused by the movement of the vitreous gel as it pulls away from the retina, and they can be particularly noticeable if there is bleeding from the retina or the vitreous itself. In many cases, floaters may gradually become less noticeable over time as the brain learns to ignore them. However, the timeline for this can vary significantly from person to person. Some patients report improvement within weeks, while others may take months. It's important to note that while floaters can diminish, they may not completely disappear.
2. Is there a risk of retinal tears or holes?
The presence of flashes of light (photopsia) and floaters can indeed indicate that there may be some traction on the retina, which could lead to tears or holes. However, not all cases of vitreous detachment result in retinal tears. The fact that your doctor performed laser treatment suggests they were taking preventive measures to address any potential issues. Laser treatment can help to seal any small retinal tears and prevent further complications. If your doctors have not mentioned any tears or holes, it’s likely they did not observe any during your examination. However, if you continue to experience new symptoms or if your floaters worsen, it’s crucial to follow up with your eye care provider for further evaluation.
Additional Considerations:
- Follow-Up Care: It’s essential to have regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist after experiencing vitreous detachment. They will monitor your condition and check for any changes in the retina.
- Activity Restrictions: Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may recommend avoiding certain activities, such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise, to reduce the risk of further complications.
- When to Seek Immediate Care: If you notice a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow or curtain in your vision, you should seek immediate medical attention, as these could be signs of a retinal tear or detachment.
In summary, while the blood-like floaters may gradually decrease over time, it’s essential to remain vigilant and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional. Your vision is important, and staying informed about your condition is key to managing it effectively.
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