Flashing Lights and a Massive Floater in Your Eye?

Mild floaters in the vision are normal, but a sudden increase in floaters is often the first symptom of PVD. During PVD, floaters are often accompanied by flashes, which are most noticeable in dark settings.

PVD is a natural change that occurs as we age, when the smooth, clear gel that fills the eye separates from the retina. PVD is rare in people under the age of 40 and becomes increasingly common the older we get. Over 75 percent of those over the age of 65 develop some degree of PVD.

Mild floaters in the vision are normal, but a sudden increase in floaters is often the first symptom of PVD. During PVD, floaters are often accompanied by flashes, which are most noticeable in dark settings. It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience PVD first in one eye, and then the other eye. Most cases are mild and do not threaten one’s vision. The symptoms subside in most who experience it. Typically, no treatment is needed for PVD.

In rare situations PVD can cause complications and may require immediate intervention. These cases are not subtle and the dramatic changes in vision associated with floaters and flashes will be the indication for you to contact your physician.

Recent cataract surgery is a risk factor for PVD. Read the full article here.

Article submitted by: Shirley Lukenbill, Blog Contributor

Thank you Shirley for sharing this important message with our readers. The article provides some valuable information on Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD). ~ Mark Carlson, MD