Posterior Vitreous Deatchment | PVD
Typical symptoms of a PVD are one or a few floaters and flashing lights that last for seconds. However, if there are many new flashes and floaters, one should be checked as there is the potential for a retinal tear or retinal detachment. Seeing a retina specialist is best to rule this out.
Over time little pockets of fluid build up in the back of the eye in the vitreous jelly. The vitreous then collapses. As it collapses little condensations are formed. These are termed “floaters” and can look like little black flies or spider webs. This is very common being seen in 63% of 70 year olds. It happens sooner if one is near sighted or if there is a history of trauma. Although the symptoms are very troubling at first, over time the brain can tune it out and sometimes the floaters can settle somewhat with gravity. That is not to say that they will go away. On a bright sunny day, they can often be noticed against a white cloud, or noticed in a bright room against a white wall.