floaters - two school of thought

Posted by John on July 28, 1999 at 16:26:58
Dear Dr's:
I experienced a floater (age 59) went to the family practice physician, as I had an appointment scheduled with him, told him of my new floater or spot as I described it, and he told me to ignore it, we all have them, just don't worry about it, its totally non-threatening.  So I did.
But I have now read that such a floater could be an early symptom of a serious matter.  How would you suggest I approach this situation?
Thank you for your input!
Posted by HFHS MD - NI on July 29, 1999 at 01:16:34
It is true that many of us have floaters and if they are chronic and stable, they are probably of no consequence.  It is still worth a routine examination to make sure the back of the eye is normal.  If there is a NEW ONSET floater, a sudden increase in the number of floaters, if they are associated with a fixed black are of vision or blurry vision, these could be signs of a retinal problem and should be promptly examined.
This information is provided for educational purposes only.  Please consult your ophthalmologist for full diagnostic and treatment options.
Sincerely,
HFHS MD - NI