How to treat vitreous opacity in the eye
May 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
In general, vitreous opacity in the eye may be caused by aging, myopia, ocular trauma, diabetic retinopathy, vitreous hemorrhage, or other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then undergo appropriate treatment under the guidance of a professional physician, which may include general management, medication, or surgical intervention. In daily life, it is advisable to have regular follow-up examinations and pay close attention to eye health.
Under normal circumstances, vitreous opacity may be caused by aging, myopia, ocular trauma, diabetic retinopathy, vitreous hemorrhage, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to determine the underlying cause, followed by appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician, which may include general management, pharmacological therapy, or surgical intervention. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Aging
The vitreous body is a gel-like substance composed of collagen fibers and hyaluronic acid. With aging, changes occur in its composition, leading to a loosening of the collagen fibers and hyaluronic acid structure, which reduces transparency and causes cloudiness. Generally, no specific treatment is required. Regular ophthalmic examinations are recommended to monitor visual changes.
2. Myopia
High myopia can lead to an elongation of the axial length of the eyeball and an enlarged vitreous cavity, causing uneven distribution of the gel-like substance and making it prone to liquefaction and opacity. Regular ophthalmic examinations are recommended to control the progression of myopia. For severe vitreous opacities caused by high myopia, surgical interventions such as vitrectomy may be required.
3. Ocular Trauma
Following ocular injury, structural damage to the eye may lead to vitreous hemorrhage or entry of foreign bodies, which can coagulate within the vitreous and cause opacity. Symptoms may include pain, sudden vision loss, and eye swelling. For minor ocular trauma, rest and application of cold compresses may help alleviate symptoms. Severe ocular trauma may require surgical treatment, such as vitrectomy, to remove blood or foreign bodies from the vitreous.
4. Diabetic Retinopathy
Long-term hyperglycemia damages the walls of retinal blood vessels, increasing their permeability and causing hemorrhage or exudation. These blood components or exudates may enter the vitreous cavity, resulting in vitreous opacity. Symptoms may include blurred vision, floaters, and photopsia. It is recommended to control blood glucose levels and follow medical advice regarding the use of medications such as metformin hydrochloride sustained-release tablets, glipizide tablets, and acarbose tablets. For severe vitreous hemorrhage or proliferative lesions, laser photocoagulation or vitreous surgery may be necessary.
5. Vitreous Hemorrhage
Rupture of retinal blood vessels or intraocular diseases can cause vitreous hemorrhage, allowing blood and its breakdown products to enter the vitreous cavity and cause opacity. Symptoms may include sudden vision loss and the appearance of dark shadows in the visual field. Minor hemorrhages may only require observation and time for spontaneous absorption. For extensive or persistent hemorrhage, surgical intervention such as vitrectomy may be necessary to remove the blood.
In daily life, it is recommended to undergo regular follow-up examinations and pay attention to eye health. Additionally, lifestyle adjustments should be made, including ensuring adequate sleep and avoiding prolonged continuous eye strain.
