Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)
Sudden onset of new floaters, often including a distinctive ring-shaped one, plus brief flashes — caused by the gel inside your eye separating from the retina.
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PVD typically begins suddenly with one of two patterns: a single large ring-shaped floater (called a Weiss ring) that drifts when the eye moves, or a "shower" of new small dark floaters appearing all at once. Many patients also see brief flashes of light, especially in dim conditions and during head movement — these are usually lightning-like arcs in the peripheral (temporal/side) vision. Symptoms peak in the first few weeks and gradually settle over 1–3 months.
What causes it
The vitreous — the clear gel that fills the eye — naturally shrinks and pulls away from the retina with age. This is normal and happens in most people by age 70. The Weiss ring is the optic nerve's former attachment that broke loose as the vitreous pulled away.
Also known as
PVD · Weiss ring · Vitreous detachment