A sudden change in vision can be alarming, especially when it involves floaters, shadows, or dark spots obstructing your sight. One of the potential causes of these visual disturbances is a vitreous hemorrhage. Dr. Oren Plous, our retina specialist and ophthalmologist proudly serving western and central Florida, provides advanced diagnosis and treatment to protect your vision and eye health.
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What Is a Vitreous Hemorrhage?

Inside the eye is a clear gel called the vitreous, which helps maintain the eye’s shape and clarity. A vitreous hemorrhage occurs when blood leaks into this gel, clouding the normally clear visual pathway. The severity can range from mild floaters to near-complete loss of vision, depending on how much blood enters the vitreous.

Common Causes of Vitreous Hemorrhage

Vitreous hemorrhage often results from underlying retinal conditions or trauma. The most common causes include:

• Diabetic retinopathy - Damaged blood vessels in the retina can leak or rupture.

• Retinal tears or detachments - Abnormal traction can cause bleeding.

• Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) - A natural aging process that can lead to vessel damage.

• Eye trauma - Blunt or penetrating injuries may cause bleeding inside the eye.

• Abnormal retinal blood vessels - Conditions like retinal vein occlusion can contribute to hemorrhaging.
  
  

Prompt evaluation is essential, as some causes can threaten long-term vision without timely treatment.

Symptoms to Watch For

A vitreous hemorrhage may develop suddenly or gradually. Common symptoms include:

• Sudden onset of floaters (spots, cobwebs, or specks)

• Blurred or hazy vision

• Dark spots or shadows that obstruct sight

• Reduced visual acuity

• Flashes of light
  
  

If you notice these symptoms, seek immediate care from a retina specialist to prevent permanent vision damage.

Management and Treatment Options for Vitreous Hemorrhage

Treatment depends on the severity of bleeding and the underlying cause:

• Observation and Monitoring: Minor hemorrhages often clear on their own over weeks to months. Regular monitoring ensures that the condition improves without complications.

• Laser Therapy: If a retinal tear or leaking vessel is identified, targeted laser treatment can prevent further bleeding and reduce risk of retinal detachment.

• Anti-VEGF Injections: For diabetic retinopathy or abnormal blood vessel growth, medication injections can help stabilize the retina and prevent future bleeding.

• Vitrectomy Surgery: For more severe or persistent hemorrhages, a vitrectomy may be recommended to remove the blood-filled vitreous and restore clearer vision.
  
  

Dr. Plous will create a personalized management plan tailored to your condition and visual needs.

Schedule a Retinal Evaluation Today

A vitreous hemorrhage should never be ignored. With early evaluation and expert care, most patients can maintain or restore vision. Dr. Oren Plous proudly serves patients throughout Western and Central Florida, including Venice, Sarasota, Wellen Park, Punta Gorda, Englewood, North Port, Fort Myers, and Largo, ensuring patients receive the specialized retina care they need close to home.

If you are experiencing sudden floaters, dark spots, or vision changes, contact Gulf Coast Retina Center to schedule an appointment and ensure you receive immediate, skilled care when you need it most