Flashes & Floaters Treatment (PVD)

A PVD (flashes and floaters) is a natural ageing condition of the eye and requires no treatment, however, it is important to have your eyes examined to check for more serious conditions.

If PVD is confirmed, it is usually just a matter of time before symptoms improve. Symptoms can last anywhere from a few weeks to a year but they usually settle after around six months. If it takes longer than six months it is not an indication of a problem, but if concerned, a follow-up appointment is recommended.

PVD alone does not cause any loss of vision. In fact, the brain learns to ignore flashers/floaters over time and vision in most cases returns to normal. If the floaters are persistently causing significant and troubling visual symptoms, an operation called a vitrectomy may be considered.

Patient Questions and Answers surrounding PVD

What do I do if it happens in the second eye?

You should do exactly the same as for the first eye. You should see an Ophthalmologist as soon as possible so that your vitreous and retina can be examined in order to exclude a retinal tear which could lead to retinal detachment.

I have high myopia and I have had floaters for many years. However, I have hardly ever had any flashes. Is there a possibility that I have a retinal hole?

High myopia does predispose to an earlier onset of posterior vitreous detachment and the fact that you have floaters suggest that your vitreous has already degenerated, but most likely without causing any problems. It is also common with high myopia to have areas of weakness and/or round retinal holes along the edges of the retina, which usually do not cause any problems and don’t need treatment. If you have any doubt you should attend an Ophthalmic Casualty Department.

My father had retinal detachment treatment and I have floaters. Am I likely to get a retinal detachment?

There is a hereditary predisposition, therefore you should be particularly alert if you notice any flashers or new floaters and be examined by an Ophthalmologist.

Posterior Vitreous Detachement Condition