Vitreous detachment?

[snapdragen]

I've been having vision issues with my left eye for the past week. My PCP sent me to an ophthalmologist yesterday, I have a vitreous detachment. Anyone out there heard of this or had it? If I understand correctly, there is a chance my retina could tear?

I'm feeling extremely paranoid right now.

[indysteel]

Did you happen to see my post on RBR? As I understand it, the risk is small. Don't do anything high impact, like running, for 6 weeks or so. Run (this is an exception to the first rule ), don't walk, to the ER if you detect any other sign of retinal detachment. Otherwise, it's a pretty normal occurrence as we age. As I said (I think) in my RBR post, they were a little more worried about my own vitreous detachment because I'm so myopic. I'm already at an increased risk for a retinal tear.

Do you have a follow up appoint with your doc? Mine dilated my eyes for rechecks once a week/every two weeks.

[snapdragen]

No follow up, he just said "here's what will happen if your retina detaches". Gee thanks doc.

[indysteel]

Honestly, I don't think the risk is particularly high unless you're otherwise at a higher risk for retinal detachment for whatever reason. I wouldn't worry too much about it. Most everyone's vitreous detaches at some point if I understand it correctly. But if you're really concerned, call the doc and ask if it warrants further monitoring by way of another eye dilation.

[tulip]

The vitreous is the jelly-like stuff in your eyeball. It does not detach, although it can leak out. Retinas detatch and you will see flashes of white light when it does. Your ophthalmologist will know what to do in your particular case. It might be temporary or it might be something that requires some intervention.

I would not treat this casually. Get a second opinion if you are not happy with the first. And I would certainly like to know why it detached--injury, diabetes, multifocal choroiditis, macular degeneration?

As someone who has lost all retina in one eye, I can tell you that it causes problems. You only have 2 eyes. I'm down to just one, and that doesn't leave much wiggle room.

[SadieKate]

Jeez, snap, do you just go looking for these things (pun intended). I'm with tulip. I think you should get a second opinion even if it is only to find a doc that will help with more education.

[snapdragen]

Saw my regular eye guy, he confirmed the dx. I'm less freaked out now than I was when first dx'd.