Floaters
and Posterior Vitreous Detachment
Floaters, sometimes associated with flashes of light, are usually a symptom of Posterior Vitrious Detachment, and can be very annoying for those who suffer with them. They are caused by degeneration in the vitreous (jelly), which fills the inside of the eye.
Severe floaters seen against a blue sky.
How do floaters form?
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| A) In the young eye, the vitreous gel is solid and is attached to the back of the eye. | B) In the aging eye, small pockets of vitreous liquefaction (lacunae) can develop within the gel. |
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| C) The lacunae may develop into large pockets and lead to separation of the gel from the back of the eye. | D) As the gel peels away, the retina may produce light flashes (photopsias) or can sometimes be torn. Light scattering by opacities or blood in the vitreous gel may appear as "floaters" to the patient. If a tear occurs and goes untreated, it can eventually lead to retinal detachment. |
Laser treatment for floaters
Recently, Mr Moriarty has been having great success using the YAG laser to treat floaters.
Further information
- Floaters on Wikipedia
- Floaters on NHS Direct
- Posterior Vitreous Detachment on the RNIB website
Appointments
To make an appointment or refer a patient to Mr Moriarty, please book online or contact Deryn Fawcett:
Phone: 01625 820 680
Fax: 01625 820 680
Email: deryn@brendanmoriarty.com
Online: Book an appointment...