Is It Safe to Fly With a Posterior Vitreous Detachment PVD? Understanding the Risks
A posterior vitreous detachment is a common age related change within the eye. It occurs when the vitreous gel separates from the retina. Patients are often diagnosed with a posterior vitreous detachment after noticing new floaters or flashes of light. When considering the risks of additional complications, patients often ask whether it is safe to fly after being diagnosed with a posterior vitreous detachment.
What is a Posterior Vitreous Detachment?
The vitreous is a clear gel that fills the inside of the eye and is attached to the retina. With age, the vitreous gradually becomes more liquid and can pull away from the retinal surface. This separation is known as a posterior vitreous detachment.
A posterior vitreous detachment itself is not a disease and does not usually threaten vision. However, during the process of separation, traction on the retina can occur. This traction can cause symptoms such as flashes of light and floaters. In some cases, it can lead to retinal tears or retinal detachment, which are serious conditions requiring prompt treatment.
Common Symptoms and Diagnosis of PVD
The most common symptoms of a posterior vitreous detachment include sudden onset of floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in the peripheral vision. These symptoms often prompt an urgent eye examination.
Diagnosis is made through a comprehensive dilated eye examination. The eye care provider evaluates the vitreous and carefully examines the retina for any signs of tearing or detachment. Additional imaging may be used to document findings and monitor changes over time.
How Flying Affects the Eye
Commercial aircraft cabins are pressurized to maintain a stable environment for passengers. The pressure changes experienced during flight primarily affect air filled spaces such as the sinuses and middle ear. The eye is a fluid filled structure and is not significantly affected by changes in cabin pressure.
Flying does not cause changes in vitreous position or increase traction on the retina. There is no evidence that air travel increases the risk of retinal tears or retinal detachment in patients with an uncomplicated posterior vitreous detachment.
Safety of Flying With a Posterior Vitreous Detachment
In most cases, it is safe to fly with a posterior vitreous detachment once a thorough retinal examination has been performed. If no retinal tears or detachment are found, air travel does not pose additional risk to the eye.
Patients who have been evaluated and cleared by an eye care provider can typically continue with normal activities, including flying. The presence of floaters or flashes alone does not make flying unsafe.
Situations Requiring Caution
Although flying itself is not harmful, the timing of travel may be important in certain situations. The risk of retinal tears is highest in the early weeks following the onset of a posterior vitreous detachment. During this period, close monitoring is often recommended.
If a patient experiences new or worsening symptoms such as a sudden increase in floaters, persistent flashes, or the appearance of a curtain or shadow in vision, immediate evaluation is necessary. Travel should be postponed until the eye has been examined.
Patients who have undergone recent retinal treatment, such as laser therapy or surgery, should follow specific travel recommendations provided by their eye care provider. These situations involve different considerations than an uncomplicated posterior vitreous detachment.