Vitreous opacities are also called “mouches volantes” or “flying mosquitoes.” In the main chamber of the eye between the lens and the retina lies the vitreous body, which has a gel-like, clear substance. The vitreous body is spherical in shape and transparent. There are neither nerves nor blood vessels in the vitreous body. Because the vitreous body is transparent, light rays can pass through it to reach the retina.
In young people, the vitreous body is completely clear. With age, however, the vitreous can develop knots or strands. These clumps of tissue cause shadows on the retina, which are perceived as dots, threads, or cobwebs.
People over the age of 65 are most often affected. This may be because, as people age, they begin to lose water, and thus the vitreous body also loses water. This happens more often in people who exercise little or have poor nutrition. The problem here is that the vitreous body fills most of the eyeball and is made up of 98% water. Therefore, it is quite counterproductive when it loses water. This loss of fluid causes the vitreous to detach, the fibrils to stick together, and light to pass through with more difficulty, leading to opacities in the vitreous.
Fortunately, vitreous opacities are curable today.
Diagnosis
First, the cause of the vitreous opacity must be determined. There are two different types of causes: those due to aging processes and those due to pathological processes. Once the cause has been identified, treatment can be tailored accordingly.
Your ophthalmologist in Frankfurt recommends that as soon as you notice symptoms, you call us immediately and arrange an appointment. We will design the appropriate treatment plan to suit your needs.
What can you do to prevent vitreous opacities?
As with many other conditions, a balanced diet can be helpful. Plenty of exercise and a healthy lifestyle can positively influence metabolism and thus affect the aging process.
Most vitreous opacities are age-related rather than disease-related. The main cause is the gradual loss of fluid in the vitreous body.
Your ophthalmologist in Frankfurt recommends avoiding sports and activities that put pressure on the eyes. Any use of medication or drugs that have a negative effect on the eyes should be avoided. If you have further questions about vitreous opacities, please feel free to contact us.
We are happy to help answer all your questions and solve your problems.
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