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  • I now understand what vitreous detachment is. What is the cure or fix for the disease if any? Is there any treatment available to improve the condition?


    Question:

    I now understand what vitreous detachment is. What is the cure or fix for the disease if any? Is there any treatment available to improve the condition?


    Answer:

    A posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) is when the vitreous (or gel) pulls away from the retina lining the back of the eye. Symptoms of a PVD include flashes and floaters. A PVD is a normal part of aging but in some cases can lead to a retinal tear or retinal detachment. See an ophthalmologist when you begin seeing floaters and flashes or notice a change in your floaters and flashes. They will check the health of your retina during the exam.

    Often the most bothersome part of a PVD, the floaters, will improve with time. It can take 3-6 months for them to improve. If they persist for longer and have an impact on important activities like reading or driving, then surgery to remove them can be considered. Because surgery (a vitrectomy) can have potential complications such as cataract, retinal detachment, and infection among other things—it is important that the floaters are significant and severely impairing your activities.


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