Talking to a Doctor

A lot of people find it hard and frustrating when enquiring about floaters, primarily because the treatment of floaters is somewhat lacking but also due the medical communities view that floaters are nothing more than an annoyance and should be treated as such. Whilst the latter may not always be the case, it is important for you ask any questions you feel you need answered and to maintain a good level of communication with your doctor. Here are some suggestions to get you started:

Treating the floaters

• Do I have to do anything special to prepare for any of the treatment?
• which floaters can you see (ask them to describe them) / which do you hope to hit
• what happens to the floaters you hit, will they relocate?
• Will laser create new floaters?
• How many sessions would you anticipate that i need?
• Are post PVD floaters easier to treat?
• What percent of my floaters are close to retina and therefore cannot be treated?
• What is your success rate with my type of floaters?
• Can I talk to anyone who has had similar treatment? i.e. testimonials
• Could my floaters return?

After the treatment

• When will I know the results?
• Will there be any side effects?
• Will I need follow up treatment?

Understanding your doctor's responses is essential to good communication. Here are a few more tips:

• If you don't understand your doctor's responses, ask questions until you do understand.
• Take notes or get a friend or family member to take notes for you. Or bring a tape-recorder to assist in your recollection of the discussion.
• Ask your doctor to write down his or her instructions to you.
• Ask your doctor for printed material about your condition.
• If you still have trouble understanding your doctor's answers, ask where you can go for more information.
• Other members of your health care team, such as nurses and pharmacists, can be good sources of information. Talk to them, too.