Vitreous haemorrhage occurs when there is bleeding into the vitreous humour. The vitreous humour is a clear, gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye. The bleeding can occur due to the rupture of blood vessels in the retina or other eye structures. When blood leaks into the vitreous humour, it can cause cloudiness or blurred vision, making it difficult to see.
Symptoms of Vitreous Haemorrhage:
The symptoms of vitreous haemorrhage can vary depending on the severity of the bleeding. Some common symptoms include:
- Blurred or cloudy vision
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters in your vision
- Seeing flashes of light
- Partial or complete loss of vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly.
Vitreous Haemorrhage and Diabetes:
Diabetes can cause damage to the blood vessels in the retina, making them fragile and prone to bleeding. When the blood vessels in the retina bleed, it can cause vitreous haemorrhage. In some cases, vitreous haemorrhage can be a sign of a more severe eye condition, such as retinal detachment, which can lead to permanent vision loss.
Posterior Vitreous Detachment:
Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) is a condition where the vitreous humour separates from the retina, causing traction on the retina.
In some cases, this can lead to a tear in the retina, which can result in bleeding into the vitreous humour. PVD is more common in people over the age of 50 and can also occur in people who are nearsighted or have had eye surgery.
Trauma:
Trauma to the eye can cause bleeding in the vitreous humour. This can happen due to a direct blow to the eye or even from high-speed deceleration, such as in a car accident. Trauma-related vitreous haemorrhage is more common in younger people.
Vein Occlusion:
Vein occlusion occurs when the veins that drain blood from the retina become blocked or narrowed. This can cause blood to leak into the retina and vitreous humour, leading to vitreous haemorrhage. Vein occlusion can occur due to various factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and blood clotting disorders.
Preventing Vitreous Haemorrhage due to PVD, Trauma, or Vein Occlusion:
Prevention of vitreous haemorrhage due to PVD, trauma, or vein occlusion may not be entirely possible.
However, wearing protective eyewear while engaging in high-risk activities, such as sports or construction work, can reduce the risk of eye trauma. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels, can help reduce the risk of vein occlusion.
Treatment of Vitreous Haemorrhage:
The treatment of vitreous haemorrhage depends on the severity of the bleeding and the underlying cause. In some cases, the bleeding may resolve on its own. However, if the bleeding is severe or causing vision loss, surgery may be necessary.
Surgery is the primary treatment for vitreous haemorrhage caused by diabetes. The goal of surgery is to remove the blood from the vitreous humour and prevent further bleeding. The most common surgical procedure used to treat vitreous haemorrhage is called a vitrectomy. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the vitreous humour and replaces it with a saline solution.
Conclusion:
Vitreous haemorrhage can occur due to several factors, including diabetes, PVD, trauma, and vein occlusion. While some bleeding may resolve on its own, severe bleeding may require surgery. It is essential to seek prompt medical attention if you experience any symptoms of vitreous haemorrhage, as early detection and treatment can prevent complications and improve outcomes.
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