The vitreous is a transparent gel that fills two-thirds to three-fourths of the volume of the adult eye. The vitreous is two to four times as viscous as water. It is thought of as a shock absorber for the delicate retina that lines the back of the eye.
In a young eye the vitreous is attached firmly to the retina. A partial vitreous-retinal detachment, as a result of vitreous degeneration, is a common age-related event in half of all adults over age 50. Frequency generally increases with age. Typically, vitreous degeneration is a benign event and 85% of the time there is no significant consequence. More frequent testing is recommended, which may include pupil dilation and/or retinal visual field examination.
Age-related vitreous degeneration is the most common cause for the sudden onset of a single large floater. Floaters of this type will typically move out of sight with the passage of time. Flashes of light may also occur as the changing vitreous tugs on the sensitive retina.
Some degree of vitreous degeneration is natural and expected. If, however, vitreous degeneration increases significantly, there is possible risk of retinal damage or retinal detachment. If your vision changes suddenly, if you experience a noticeable change in visual floaters, a distortion in vision or a sudden increase in the frequency or duration of light flashes, call our office without delay. Always pay close attention to your symptoms.