Treatment for Floaters and Flashes (PVD's)

(Floaters and Flashes)

When sudden symptoms of floaters appear, it is important to examine the eye within 48 hours of their onset. These "floaters" can be a forerunner of a tear or a "retinal detachment". Retinal changes (tears) can rapidly occur after their onset, and therefore time can be of essence if a retinal detachment develops. Even if all is "normal" in the floater eye, patients can not assume that all is well in the other eye. Both eyes should be carefully examined and treated (laser) if necessary.

If a "retinal tear" is found, (PICTURE) treatment is simple and very effective. The tears should be sealed with circles of burns around the tear with a laser or by freezing (cryo) unit. Both accomplish the same purpose with good results and low

complication rates. The procedure (laser or cryo) is usually done in an outpatient setting under a topical or local anesthesia.

A dilated "indirect" eye exam is necessary by an Eyecare Specialist. If no tear or retinal detachment is noted, then follow-up is necessary. Many people have "old" floaters which have been present for many years and these are usually a result of "posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). This type of PVD does not usually lead to any serious problems. It is due to the central eye jelly (vitreous) changing from a gel to water inside the eye. "Light flashes" can be associated with PVD's or Retinal Detachment. If a "cloud" appears in the side vision after the onset of floaters, this can be the onset of a retinal tear or detachment and immediate laser or surgical treatment (SEE PICTURE BELOW) is necessary to prevent blindness.

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