posterior vitreous detachment

[Tom]

Hi
Posterior vitreous detachment is the process where the vitreous in the aye is getting smaller due to aging. It then detach from the retina. If it sticks it can make a tear in the retina that again can lead to retina detachment, which is a medical emergency, and untreated will cause blindness.
This PVD is rare if you are younger than 40 years old.
I had an aye examination when I had the first signs of PVD which is increase of floaters in the aye and some flashing light of half second duration.
PVD is a natural aging process and need no treatment, only a check that the retina is not damaged during the process. Which is rare anyway. Something like 1/5000 cases.
The doctor spoke only some english, and when I asked, the answer was, no surfing in 2 days.

Anybody have any experience. I googled PVD and exersize, and 4 -6 weeks to 3 month was mentioned for things like jogging and weight lifting.

I am standing in Portugal with surboard ready to go. But I hesitate because this 2 day thing could be wrong translating. I have since moved 300 km an can not contact the doctor for a clarification.
Tom

[jaffa1949]

Tom, bluntly so it cannot be mistaken,get a definite all clear and clear assessment of risks involved.
If you are getting vitreous detachment at a younger than normal age other factors in your health need evaluation!!!!.
I would strongly suggest you forgo the surf until you have the full medical advice and are in a position where if necessary something can be done!

Are you willing to take a 1 in 5000 bet with your eyesight without all the information
I googled this British website with a full lot of information
http://www.rnib.org.uk/eyehealth/eyecon ... H2Heading3

It may help, one thing I am aware of is to look to see if the physical activities increase your floaters or even more important increase the flashing lights as the detachment tugs on your retina.
My advice still is to get the check where you can both understand in full communication and of course you have a chance at health care with in your home countries health system.

[Jimi]

Hi Tom. Basically, the vitreous is a fluid space within your eyeball. Immediately posterior is the retina. Like any fluid filled sac, if you move it around, there are eddy currents that form within the liquid. If these eddy currents are strong, and close to the retina, you could well tear it and have it detach.

DO NOT risk it till you've seen an ophthalmologist. Rapid head movements are very risky.

Get an assessment by an ophthalmologist, who will use a slit-lamp for a proper inspection of your retina, and will be able to give you advice about exercise or prognosis.

[Tom]

Thank you. I am reading the answers in the airport on my way home. Booked a ticket first thing this morning. Next week I have an appointment with aye specialist. Then I will follow his advice.

Thanks again.

Tom

[Tom]

For clarafication. I am 64 years old.

I had one more examination by a specialist aye doctor. He confimed previous findings. The vitreous is not completely detatched yet. About 50%.
Asked if I could continue surfing right now, he said "Yes of course" However to keep an focus on warning signs, like increase in floaters and flashing light.

After a week floaters almost gone. A bit of week flashing now and again. Only in darkness.

I am back to daily surfing. Just small waves like 3 to 5 feet. And I do not push it flat out.

Cheers Tom

[jaffa1949]

Good outcome, consider yourself a MOTHBALL. Member Over The Hill Band of Ancient Long Log Surfers, even if you ride short.
Great stuff and good news!

[Jimi]

Great to hear! Better to be safe than sorry, and now you can surf without trepidation.