What Is Vitreous Hemorrhage?

Vitreous hemorrhage occurs when blood leaks into the vitreous body of the eye—the thick, clear, gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye and helps maintain its shape. Vitreous bleeding can affect your vision if it blocks light from reaching the retina, the light‑sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for sight.  

This article will cover the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of vitreous hemorrhage.

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Symptoms of Vitreous Hemorrhage

Vitreous hemorrhage can present in several different ways. Symptoms may include unilateral floaters and/or loss of vision. Some people with a mild form of the condition may notice early warning signs such as:

Symptoms may be worse in the morning because blood can pool in your eye while you are lying down. Vitreous hemorrhage is usually not painful, and the symptoms can appear suddenly.

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Causes of Vitreous Hemorrhage

Vitreous hemorrhage can result from a variety of underlying problems. Some of the more common causes include:

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Diagnosis of Vitreous Hemorrhage

A healthcare professional who specializes in eye conditions, such as an ophthalmologist, will perform a comprehensive eye examination. They will also ask about your medical history and whether you have recently experienced any accidents or eye injuries.  

Your healthcare provider may order additional tests to help diagnose vitreous hemorrhage, including:

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Vitreous hemorrhage

Although vitreous hemorrhage usually affects only one eye, the ophthalmologist will typically examine your other eye as well to help narrow down possible causes. Depending on the findings, you may be referred to a retina specialist (a subspecialized ophthalmologist) for further evaluation and management.

Treatment of Vitreous Hemorrhage

Although a vitreous hemorrhage may clear on its own within about two months, your ophthalmologist will likely schedule follow‑up visits to monitor the bleeding. They may recommend using extra pillows to keep your head elevated while sleeping to help reduce blood pooling in the affected eye.

You may also be advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous physical activity. In many cases, you will be instructed not to take aspirin or other blood thinners, as these can interfere with normal clotting. More advanced treatment options for vitreous hemorrhage may include:

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Vitreous hemorrhage is bleeding into the eye’s vitreous gel. Common causes include trauma and diabetic retinopathy. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the hemorrhage. Regular eye examinations and the use of protective eyewear can significantly lower your risk of developing a vitreous hemorrhage.

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Whatever vision problems, refractive errors, or eye diseases you may be facing, this sensitive medical condition requires a thorough examination and appropriate treatment from a skilled, experienced ophthalmologist using effective medical tools that deliver real results.  

Whatever eye condition you are suffering from, you can book an appointment at Batal Specialized Medical Complex to undergo the necessary evaluation and start addressing your eye problems, no matter how complex they may be.