Vitreous Detachment: What’s Normal and What’s Not

Noticing new floaters or flashes of light in your vision can be unsettling. For many people, these symptoms are related to a common, age-related change inside the eye called posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). In most cases, PVD is not dangerous. However, because similar symptoms can also signal more serious retinal problems, it’s important to seek care right away.

What Is Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)?

Inside your eye is a clear, gel-like substance called the vitreous. When you’re younger, the vitreous has a firm, jelly-like consistency and is gently attached to the retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. As you age, the vitreous begins to liquify, pulling away from the retina as it loses its firm consistency. This process is known as posterior vitreous detachment. It is very common and becomes more likely after age 50, though it can happen earlier, especially in people who are very nearsighted or who have had eye surgery.
PVD itself usually does not damage the eye or affect long-term vision.

Common Symptoms of PVD

When the vitreous shifts or separates from the retina, you may notice:
Floaters: Small specks, cobwebs, or thread-like shapes that move when you move your eyes
Flashes of light: Brief flickers, often in side (peripheral) vision, especially in dim lighting

These symptoms are often harmless and may bother you less as your brain and eyes adjust and learn to ignore these changes.

Symptoms That Signal an Issue

While PVD itself does not damage the eye or affect long-term vision, more serious complications can arise. As the vitreous separates, it can sometimes pull hard enough on the retina to cause a small tear. If fluid then seeps through that tear, it can lift the retina away from the back of the eye, leading to retinal detachment, which requires urgent care.

Warning signs that may indicate a more serious problem include:

• A sudden increase in the number of floaters
• A sudden onset of frequent or persistent flashes of light
• A dark curtain, shadow, or gray area in your side or central vision
• Blurred or distorted vision that wasn’t there before

If you notice any of the above symptoms, call your retina specialist right away. It can be tempting to ignore new floaters or flashes if your vision still seems clear, but complications can develop before you notice any vision loss, and early, same-day treatment often offers the best chance of saving your sight.

When to Contact Retina Consultants of Texas

If you’re experiencing new floaters, flashes, or any shadow in your vision, the specialists at Retina Consultants of Texas are here to help. Our team offers prompt evaluations and advanced retinal imaging to quickly determine what’s causing your symptoms and whether treatment is needed. If something feels different with your vision, it’s always better to have it checked. Scheduling an exam as soon as possible can help prevent complications and protect your sight.