Vitreous hemorrhage can lead to sudden vision loss and requires immediate attention. Our experienced retina specialists listed with Specialty Vision are here to help you understand the causes and explore effective treatment options.
A vitreous hemorrhage is bleeding that occurs inside the vitreous, a gel-like substance filling the largest space in your eye. This condition causes sudden, painless vision loss in the affected eye and, depending on its cause, can lead to permanent vision changes. Our retina specialists emphasize the importance of uncovering the underlying cause to guide effective treatment and protect your vision.
A vitreous hemorrhage is bleeding that occurs inside the vitreous, a gel-like substance filling the largest space in your eye. This condition causes sudden, painless vision loss in the affected eye and, depending on its cause, can lead to permanent vision changes. Our retina specialists emphasize the importance of uncovering the underlying cause to guide effective treatment and protect your vision.
When blood leaks into the vitreous, the clear pathway that allows light to reach the retina becomes obstructed. This makes it difficult for you to see properly and can manifest as sudden vision deterioration, the appearance of floaters, or a cobweb-like overlay. Because the bleeding typically occurs deep in the eye, it is not visible from the outside, which makes a thorough examination essential for a proper diagnosis.
An abrupt decrease in visual clarity is common, as blood in the vitreous blocks light from reaching the retina.
Many individuals notice floaters—dark spots or strands that drift across their field of vision—often described as resembling cobwebs.
As the blood disperses within the vitreous, it can cause the vision to appear hazy or cloudy.
Some people report a reddish hue in their vision, depending on the amount and location of the bleeding.
Symptoms may intensify upon waking, as blood settles to the back of the eye during sleep.
Vitreous hemorrhage occurs when blood vessels within your eye become leaky, allowing blood to seep into the vitreous. This can happen due to physical injury, internal stress, or underlying health issues. Let’s take a closer look at the primary triggers:
Some instances of vitreous hemorrhage stem from direct physical trauma or stress within the eye. Here’s how mechanical forces may contribute:
A strong impact, such as from a blunt force or even a sharp object, can damage the delicate blood vessels. This type of injury is one of the most common reasons for vitreous hemorrhage in people under 40.
In very young children, particularly in instances of shaken baby syndrome, the rapid and forceful movement can rupture blood vessels.
When the vitreous separates from the retina—a condition sometimes seen in posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) or retinal tears—the strain on connecting vessels can lead to bleeding. This separation can disturb the tight bond between the vitreous and the retina.
Episodes of increased pressure, such as those from the Valsalva maneuver (a forceful attempt to exhale, often during heavy lifting or straining), or even repetitive coughing and sneezing, may also compromise blood vessel integrity.
In some cases, systemic or chronic conditions elevate the risk of developing a vitreous hemorrhage. Damage or changes in the blood vessels often set the stage for bleeding. Here are several health issues that can contribute:
High blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, making them more prone to leakage. Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading underlying causes of vitreous hemorrhage.
Excess blood pressure can weaken and eventually damage the blood vessel walls in the eye, leading to potential hemorrhages.
Blockages in the retinal veins can cause localized increases in pressure, leading to blood vessel rupture and subsequent hemorrhage.
In patients with this blood disorder, the abnormal shape of red blood cells can harm the blood vessels, raising the risk of bleeding in the eye.
Certain tumors and conditions like anemia or hemophilia can interfere with the normal function of blood vessels.
Inflammatory conditions affecting blood vessels can weaken them and result in hemorrhages.
This advanced form of AMD can cause abnormal blood vessel growth under the retina, which may bleed into the vitreous.
Diagnosing a vitreous hemorrhage involves a targeted eye examination combined with specific tests to assess the extent and source of the bleeding. Here’s how our retina specialists approach the process:
The first step is a comprehensive exam using an ophthalmoscope or slit lamp. These tools allow our retina specialists to look deep into the eye and detect even subtle changes caused by bleeding. However, because the blood is often diffused in the vitreous, the hemorrhage might not be immediately visible, especially if it is small or off to one side.
In cases where a detailed view is necessary, additional tests are conducted:
When it is difficult to see deep into the eye, an ultrasound can create detailed images of the eye’s internal structures. This is particularly useful when diagnosing vitreous hemorrhage and determining its extent.
OCT uses a low-power laser to capture cross-sectional images of the eye. It provides insight into the blood vessels and can help reveal small bleeds that might be missed during a standard exam.
To identify contributing conditions, our retina specialists may recommend blood tests. These tests check your blood sugar levels, evaluate clotting functions, and examine other indicators that could point to underlying disorders like blood disorders or diabetes-related issues.
Although less common, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans may be utilized to determine if increased pressure in the brain is affecting blood vessels in your eye.
Once a vitreous hemorrhage is diagnosed, determining the best treatment option depends on the cause, severity, and individual patient factors. Our retina specialists evaluate each case carefully to decide the appropriate strategy. Below are updated approaches to managing vitreous hemorrhage:
If you're experiencing sudden vision changes or suspect vitreous hemorrhage, it's crucial to seek professional help. Contact one of the reputable retina specialists listed with Specialty Vision to get the expert care you need and protect your vision.
In mild cases, the body’s natural healing process can clear a vitreous hemorrhage without aggressive intervention.
This approach is most effective when the underlying cause is manageable through lifestyle modifications or medical therapy.
For moderate to severe cases or localized damage to blood vessels, targeted treatments aim to stabilize affected areas and prevent complications.
These treatments are particularly effective in addressing neovascularization and preventing recurrent bleeding.
When conservative or focal treatments fail, surgery becomes necessary.
Early vitrectomy has been shown to improve visual outcomes in patients with severe diabetic vitreous hemorrhage compared to deferred surgery.
Medications play a vital role in managing vitreous hemorrhage by targeting underlying causes such as abnormal blood vessel growth.
Although vitreous hemorrhage can sometimes occur unexpectedly, there are proactive steps you can take to lower your risk. Our retina specialists recommend the following strategies, supported by insights from optometry and ophthalmology:
Protective eyewear is essential during activities that pose a risk of eye injury, such as contact sports, construction work, or handling hazardous materials. Safety goggles or polycarbonate lenses can shield your eyes from trauma, reducing the likelihood of bleeding in the vitreous humor caused by direct injury.
Routine eye exams are vital for detecting early signs of systemic conditions that may lead to vitreous hemorrhage. Comprehensive dilated eye exams allow ophthalmologists to monitor retinal health and identify issues like neovascularization or retinal tears before they progress. Annual physical exams are equally important for managing conditions like diabetes and hypertension, which are significant risk factors.
Controlling systemic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure is one of the most effective ways to prevent vitreous hemorrhage. For diabetic patients, maintaining optimal blood sugar levels can reduce the risk of proliferative diabetic retinopathy—a leading cause of vitreous hemorrhage. Similarly, managing hypertension helps prevent vascular damage that could lead to bleeding in the eye.
Diabetic Retinopathy Prevention: Regular monitoring with retinal imaging and timely treatments like panretinal photocoagulation can minimize complications.
Hypertension Management: Adhering to prescribed medications and lifestyle changes can protect both ocular and systemic vascular health.
Sudden vision changes, such as floaters, flashes of light, or blurred vision, may signal an impending vitreous hemorrhage or other retinal issues. Prompt evaluation by an ophthalmologist ensures early diagnosis and intervention, potentially preventing more severe complications like retinal detachment.
Adopting habits that promote overall eye health can further reduce risks:
Avoid smoking, as it exacerbates vascular damage and increases the likelihood of conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) associated with vitreous hemorrhage.
Follow a balanced diet rich in antioxidants (e.g., vitamins C and E) and omega-3 fatty acids to support retinal health.
The outcome of a vitreous hemorrhage depends on several factors including the cause, the severity, and how quickly treatment is initiated. Here’s what you can generally expect:
Your vision might return gradually as the blood in the vitreous settles or is reabsorbed by your body. This process can take days or even weeks and may vary greatly from one individual to another. During this time, you might notice gradual improvement, but some cases may experience lingering visual disturbances.
While many patients recover significant vision over time, complications can occur:
In some instances, the effects of the hemorrhage can lead to lasting alterations in vision. It is important to follow up with our retina specialists so that any long-term issues can be managed effectively.
If the underlying cause involves a retinal tear or detachment, further complications might arise that impact overall vision. Early treatment is essential to minimize these risks.
Adjusting to a vitreous hemorrhage and its treatment can be challenging, yet with the right care and attention, many patients experience recovery and renewed clarity over time. While dealing with sudden vision loss is understandably distressing, understanding the condition and knowing that treatment options are available can be reassuring.
During your recovery, it is important to continue routine eye exams and maintain a close relationship with our retina specialists. By addressing both the hemorrhage and any underlying health conditions, you can work towards not just healing your eye but also preventing future complications.
If you're experiencing sudden vision changes or suspect vitreous hemorrhage, it's crucial to seek professional help. Contact one of the reputable retina specialists listed with Specialty Vision to get the expert care you need and protect your vision.
Understanding vitreous hemorrhage symptoms, causes, and treatments from experienced retina specialists listed with Specialty Vision.
