What are the signs of vitreous opacity?
Disease description:
I have recently been experiencing some blurring of vision, as if there are dark shadows floating in front of my eyes. I heard it might be vitreous opacity, which worries me a lot. What are the symptoms of vitreous opacity? Are the dark shadows in front of the eyes always present?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Shuai
Vitreous opacity, known as "floaters," is a condition characterized by abnormalities in the vitreous body inside the eye. The vitreous body is a transparent, gel-like substance filling the posterior cavity of the eyeball. Its primary functions are to maintain the shape of the eye and assist in focusing light onto the retina. When the vitreous becomes opaque due to aging, trauma, or disease, vitreous opacity occurs.
Main symptoms include:
1. Moving shadows: Patients often notice floating dark spots in their vision. These shadows may appear as dots, lines, specks, or other varying shapes and quantities. They move with the movement of the eyes and are particularly noticeable against bright, white backgrounds.
2. Decreased vision: Although vitreous opacity generally does not severely affect vision, severe cases may lead to blurred vision.
3. Photopsia (flashes of light): In more severe cases, patients may perceive flashes of light. This occurs due to traction on the vitreous, which causes abnormal electrical activity in retinal cells.
If these symptoms appear suddenly or worsen rapidly, it is recommended to seek immediate medical examination.
