LASIK, CATARACTS & LENS IMPLANTS

Q: I seem to be getting more floaters the older I get. What causes them and is there anything I can do? A:

Floaters are the tiny, dark colored specks or cobwebs that float around within your field of vision. They may appear to drift around as you move your eyes, and dart away when you try to “look” at them directly. Floaters are normal and a fairly common issue that increases as we age. This is beacuase when we get older, the vitreous or gel-like substance that fills the eye gradually thickens or shrinks. This thickening or shrinking causes floaters to occur as the vitreous pulls away from the retina. If you have a sudden increase in floaters, especially if you have light flashes at the same time, this could indicate a retinal detachment. A retinal detachment is a serious issue that requires immediate medical attention. This occurs when any part of the retina, the eye’s light-sensitive tissue, is lifted or pulled from its normal position at the back of the eye. If left untreated, a retinal detachment can lead to permanent visual loss or even blindness. Those who experience a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light in peripheral vision, or a loss of peripheral vision should see their eye doctor as soon as possible. Floaters can be annoying, but they usually do not require treatment. If floaters become frequent and begin to affect vision, some surgeons will perform a vitrectomy, a surgical procedure that removes floaters from the vitreous fluid. This procedure is only performed if absolutely necessary. Some ophthalmologists now offer floater removal using a yag laser, which has proven to be successful for removing smaller floaters. Michael E. Rom, M.D. Insight Eye Center Chardon (440) 286-1188 Mentor (440 205-5840 www.insighteyecenter.com