Floaters: Will They Ever Go Away?

Q: Floaters: Will They Ever Go Away?

Hello Lucy： Floaters may change in shape and number as the vitreous body degenerates, and they typically persist for a long time without disappearing. <br>However, the sensation of them obstructing your vision can gradually become something you get used to, turning into a form of

Will floaters always be present?

Hi Dr.
Gao, last Monday, April 6th, I suddenly noticed a striped floaters in my left eye, while my right eye only had a few faint black spots.
I went to the ophthalmologist for a dilated eye exam.
I have high myopia, with myopia degrees of -1300 and -1250 in both eyes.
Fortunately, there were no issues with my retina, and it was confirmed to be vitreous floaters.
The doctor gave me two bottles of eye drops for maintenance, and said to come back for more after using them.

I would like to ask: Do I need to use the eye drops every day? Will it improve my floaters? Also, do floaters disappear after a while and then reappear, or do they persist indefinitely? The striped floaters in my left eye are constantly moving back and forth, obstructing my vision and causing discomfort.
Thank you for your response! Sincerely, Lucy.

Lucy, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/13

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Lucy: Floaters may change in shape and number as the vitreous body degenerates, and they typically persist for a long time without disappearing.
However, the sensation of them obstructing your vision can gradually become something you get used to, turning into a form of visual neglect.
Eye drops are ineffective for floaters, and as long as the dilated eye examination shows no issues, you can feel reassured to coexist with them peacefully! Please refer to: https://bit.ly/2xgUowc for more information.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan operates on the following schedule: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Best regards, Gao Pi-Lin.

Reply Date: 2020/04/13

More Info

Floaters, or "flying mosquitoes," are a common visual phenomenon, especially among individuals with high myopia (nearsightedness) like yourself. They are caused by tiny clumps of gel or cells within the vitreous humor, the clear gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous can become more liquid, and these clumps can cast shadows on the retina, resulting in the perception of floaters.

Regarding your specific questions:
1. Do I need to use the eye drops every day?
The eye drops prescribed by your ophthalmologist are likely intended to help with lubrication and comfort, rather than directly addressing the floaters themselves. While they may provide some relief from dryness or irritation, they won't eliminate floaters. It's essential to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the frequency of use. If you find that the drops help alleviate discomfort, you may continue to use them as directed.

2. Will floaters improve over time?
Floaters can sometimes become less noticeable over time as your brain learns to ignore them. However, they may not completely disappear. Many people report that floaters can fluctuate in visibility; they might seem more pronounced at times and less so at others. This variability can be due to changes in lighting, your focus, or even your emotional state.

3. Will floaters ever go away completely?
In most cases, floaters do not go away entirely. They may persist for years, but their prominence can diminish. Some individuals may experience new floaters as they age, especially if they have conditions like high myopia, which increases the risk of developing floaters and other vitreous changes.

4. Can floaters reappear after disappearing?
Yes, floaters can reappear after a period of being less noticeable. This can happen due to changes in the vitreous gel or new clumps forming. If you notice a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention, as these can be signs of retinal detachment or other serious conditions.

In conclusion, while floaters can be bothersome, they are generally harmless. If they significantly interfere with your vision or quality of life, you might discuss further options with your ophthalmologist. In some cases, procedures like vitrectomy (removal of the vitreous gel) can be considered, but these carry risks and are typically reserved for severe cases. Regular eye check-ups are essential to monitor your eye health, especially given your high myopia. Always consult your eye care professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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