Vision Q&A
with Mark Pophal, M.D.

Dr. Pophal would like to remind you that without an exam many of your questions cannot be properly answered.

Your vision is important and should not be taken for granted, or taken lightly. It is wise to see an eye doctor right away if you have questions or problems with your eyes or vision.

Useful information can be found at the American Academy of Ophthalmology website

Q. My friend sees "things" in his eyes. They are more like "floaters" as my uncle put it. My friend explains the nearer it is, the duller it is thus the farther it is the sharper it is.

I never heard of such a thing, but my uncle said it had to do with some sort of "breaking of the fibers in the eye". He looks into the mirror he can hardly see anything in his eyes thus when eye doctors can't see it "inside" his eyes, then what is it that he is seeing. Is it an "eye disease"?

Can it be treated? P.S. My uncle said it can be treatable with washing it out with oil?

A. This may be vitreous floaters which are very common. They may or may not be seen on exam.

It is best to have an eye exam so that an Ophthalmologist can ask you questions to obtain all of the pertinent information to properly diagnose your condition.

Also - with all due respect to your Uncle, unless he is an ophthalmologist I would suggest you be careful taking his advice. More often than not home remedies like the one you are describing cause more harm then good.

Q. Occasionally when I turn quickly, and especially at night, I see a flashing light for a second. Should I be concerned?

A. Flashes of light may be associated with retinal tears. Tears to the retina are very serious.

You really should have an eye exam, and I would not delay.

Q. Is laser surgery as successful for farsighted people as nearsighted people?

A. No. Laser surgery is usually more successful with nearsighted people.