Seeing that a few spots pass by your field of vision is a common experience, in fact it becomes more so as we age. That said, a sudden onset of new floaters or flashes should see a doctor. Also note that these symptoms present with PVD eye which is posterior vitreous detachment. In most cases such symptoms do not lead to permanent vision issues. At the same time similar symptoms present when the retina has a tear or is beginning to detach. Timely retinal exams can help determine the issue at hand and in turn save your sight.
What Is PVD Eye?
A PVD eye is what happens when the vitreous detaches from the retina. The vitreous is a clear gel which fills the eye’s interior. As we age this gel transforms to become more watery and changes in structure.
Eventually the retina may pull away from the vitreous which is what doctors term as posterior vitreous detachment. This process tends to become more common as we age. Also people with great degrees of short sight may see this happen at a younger age.
A PVD eye usually does not require treatment. What may require care is the time when the vitreous gel peels away from the retina and at that time has strong pull.
Why Does PVD Cause New Floaters and Light Flashes?
In the PVD eye, it is not uncommon for the vitreous to have small strands or clumps which cast shadows on the retina. You may see these as new floaters which present as dots, threads, cobwebs, circles, or moving specks.
During the process of posterior vitreous detachment, it is a different picture. The vitreous may pull on the retina at this time. This mechanical action may produce what are known as brief flashes of light which in many cases appear at the edge of your vision.
The National Eye Institute reports that a large increase in floaters and peripheral flashes is a typical sign of vitreous detachment.
| Symptom | What You May Notice |
| New floaters | Dots, strands, rings or cobweb-like shapes moving across vision |
| Light flashes | Brief flickers or flashes, often in peripheral vision |
| Blurred vision | Reduced clarity or haziness |
| Dark shadow | A curtain-like or shadowed area in the visual field |
When Does a PVD Eye Need a Retina Examination?
Any new floaters that show up suddenly, or new flashes you see which you haven’t experienced before these should be reported to an ophthalmologist. A professional has to tell if your symptoms are from a simple PVD eye or if there is a retina issue.
This is important to note as symptoms by themselves are not reliable in ruling out a retinal tear. A dilated retinal exam allows an ophthalmologist to look at the back of the eye and for retinal breaks.
The National Eye Institute recommends that you see an eye doctor right away at the first sign of vitreous detachment. Also a dilated eye exam may be done to look for related issues.
Understanding Retinal Tear Risk With PVD
In an acute PVD case the main issue is that of the PVD eye is retinal tear risk. As the vitreous detaches it may still be fully attached to parts of the retina. At these points of attachment pull may sometimes cause a retinal tear.
A retinal hole may also allow fluid in under the retina. This may go on to cause retinal detachment which is a medical emergency.
| Situation | Level of Concern |
| Long-standing stable floaters | Usually lower concern, but discuss changes with your doctor |
| Sudden new floaters | Needs prompt assessment |
| Floaters with repeated flashes | Higher retinal tear risk |
| Sudden shower of floaters | Requires urgent assessment |
| Dark curtain, shadow or vision loss | Medical emergency requiring immediate evaluation |
The National Eye Institute identifies sudden numerous floaters, flashes, and a dark curtain or shadow as warning signs of retinal detachment.
Who May Have a Higher Retinal Tear Risk?
Although age is a factor in posterior vitreous detachment many people may still develop it at a younger age. Nearsightedness is a risk factor for vitreous changes. Also if you had cataract surgery, had eye trauma, retinal issues or have had a retinal detachment in the past your risk may be greater.
People that develop a PVD eye may see it happen in the other eye at a later time. Any new floaters or flashes should be evaluated properly instead of writing them off as harmless.
What Happens During a Retina Examination?
When in the case of a suspected PVD eye the doctor is to investigate, they will use eye drops which dilate the pupil. This action gives the doctor a better view of the retina and vitreous.
The ophthalmologist looks for signs of posterior vitreous detachment, retinal tears, holes, bleeding, or retinal detachment during exams. If retina health is present the mostly unaffected PVD eye may be best suited to routine follow up rather than intervention.
Floaters can persist, although many people report they see fewer of them as time goes on. Flashes also tend to fade. That said if you see worsening of new floaters, very strong flashes, a shadow, or sudden vision loss you will require another in person evaluation.
Conclusion
A very common age related change is that of the PVD eye and in most cases it resolves without serious complications. But should a new floater or light flash present itself suddenly that is not a good sign. It may be that which is still simple posterior vitreous detachment but also may be a sign of increased retinal tear risk.
If suddenly you experience an outbreak of floaters, repeat flashes, blurred vision, a dark curtain, or loss of vision seek immediate eye care. At ASG Eye Care we can provide a timely retina evaluation which in turn will determine the cause of your symptoms and the best care plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is PVD eye dangerous?
A PVD eye is in most cases not dangerous by itself. But the vitreous may at times pull with great force which in turn may cause a retinal tear. That is why any new symptoms should be evaluated.
2. Are new floaters always caused by PVD?
No.New floaters onset is a feature of posterior vitreous detachment, but also may present with other eye conditions. A dilated exam is useful in determining the cause.
3. Should I see an eye doctor for sudden flashes?
Yes. Sudden flashes that present with new floaters should be evaluated right away as they may point to vitreous traction or an increased retinal tear risk.
4. Can posterior vitreous detachment cause retinal detachment?
In some reports posterior vitreous detachment causes retinal tear. Untreated tears in turn may lead to retinal detachment. Early detection is key to reducing the chance of serious vision loss.
5. Does every PVD eye require treatment?
No. An easy case of PVD eye may just require us to monitor it which is not always the case. When we see complications like retinal tear or retinal detachment we will have to intervene.
References
- National Eye Institute (NIH) – Vitreous Detachment
https://www.nei.nih.gov/eye-health-information/eye-conditions-and-diseases/vitreous-detachment - NHS – Floaters and Flashes in the Eyes
https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/floaters-and-flashes-in-the-eyes/
