Diving with PVD Symptoms

[CF L]

I have been told by my optometrist recently that I have Posterior Vitreous Detachment. I've found a question-and-answer page from a diver magazine that suggests diving within 6 months of the onset of symptoms may not be advisable, which contradicts some discussions I've read on this forum.

My symptoms including a floater and flashing light in dark environments started in late May and I have a dive trip booked in early October. From what I've read symptoms may go away in a few months when the detachment is complete, so fingers crossed that may happen for me when I leave for my trip, but if I need to cancel the booking I have to do it by the end of August.

I could consult an ophthalmologist but not sure how to find one familiar with diving physiology.

I am wonder if I should avoid diving until after 6 months? Any advice will be gratefully received.

 

[Duke Dive Medicine]

I have been told by my optometrist recently that I have Posterior Vitreous Detachment. I've found a question-and-answer page from a diver magazine that suggests diving within 6 months of the onset of symptoms may not be advisable, which contradicts some discussions I've read on this forum.

My symptoms including a floater and flashing light in dark environments started in late May and I have a dive trip booked in early October. From what I've read symptoms may go away in a few months when the detachment is complete, so fingers crossed that may happen for me when I leave for my trip, but if I need to cancel the booking I have to do it by the end of August.

I could consult an ophthalmologist but not sure how to find one familiar with diving physiology.

I am wonder if I should avoid diving until after 6 months? Any advice will be gratefully received.

Recommend you start with a medical referee via UK Diving Medical Committee.

Best regards,
DDM

 

[CF L]

Recommend you start with a medical referee via UK Diving Medical Committee.

Best regards,
DDM

Thanks, I have just emailed a medical referee in my area on UKDMC.

 

[CF L]

The medical referee I emailed replied very quickly and this is what he said:

"Posterior Vitreous Detachment is a benign condition that does not need any treatment. It will not be aggravated by diving either."

I have contacted a couple of medical travel insurance providers, both have said PVD should be declared as a pre-existing condition for cover.