Eye Doctor Explains What To Do If You Start Seeing ‘Floaters’

Introduction

Have you ever noticed tiny specks, strings, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your field of vision? These are called floaters, and they can be a normal part of aging or a sign of an underlying eye condition. While floaters are usually harmless, they can sometimes indicate more serious eye issues. In this article, we’ll explore what floaters are, why they occur, and what you should do if you suddenly start seeing them.

What Are Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are small clumps of vitreous gel or tiny fibers that cast shadows on the retina. The vitreous is the clear, jelly-like substance inside the eye that helps maintain its shape. Over time, this gel can become more liquid and develop small clumps that float around. These floaters appear as tiny spots, strings, or clouds that move when you move your eyes.

Causes of Eye Floaters

There are several common causes of floaters, including:

1. Aging

As people age, the vitreous in the eye shrinks and liquefies. This process, known as posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), is common after the age of 50 and can lead to floaters.

2. Eye Infections and Inflammation

Inflammation in the eye, such as uveitis, can cause debris to form inside the vitreous, leading to an increase in floaters.

3. Eye Injuries

Trauma to the eye can disturb the vitreous, causing new floaters to appear.

4. Retinal Tears or Detachments

In some cases, floaters can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to vision loss.

5. Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetes can lead to changes in the blood vessels of the retina, sometimes causing bleeding into the vitreous and resulting in the appearance of floaters.

When to See an Eye Doctor

Although most floaters are harmless, certain signs should prompt an immediate visit to an eye doctor. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• A sudden increase in floaters
• Flashes of light in your vision
• Loss of peripheral (side) vision
• A shadow or curtain effect over part of your vision
• Eye pain or discomfort along with floaters

These symptoms could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment to prevent vision loss.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you visit an eye doctor for floaters, they will likely perform a comprehensive eye exam, which may include:

• Dilated Eye Exam: Using eye drops to widen the pupils and examine the retina and vitreous more closely.
• Ophthalmoscopy: A detailed look at the back of the eye to check for abnormalities.
• Ultrasound Imaging: In some cases, if the view is blocked by bleeding, an ultrasound may be used to assess the retina.

Treatment Options

In many cases, no treatment is necessary for floaters, as they often become less noticeable over time. However, if they are particularly bothersome or indicate a more serious condition, treatment options include:

1. Vitrectomy
   • A surgical procedure where the vitreous is removed and replaced with a saline solution. This is typically done for severe cases where floaters significantly affect vision.
2. Laser Therapy (YAG Laser Vitreolysis)
   • A laser is used to break up large floaters into smaller, less noticeable pieces. This procedure is not widely performed and may not be suitable for all cases.
3. Observation and Adaptation
   • Many people find that floaters become less bothersome over time as the brain learns to ignore them.

Preventing Eye Floaters

While floaters are often unavoidable, there are ways to keep your eyes healthy and reduce the risk of developing serious eye conditions:

• Get Regular Eye Exams: Yearly checkups help detect issues early.
• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Foods rich in antioxidants, such as leafy greens, fish, and nuts, support eye health.
• Protect Your Eyes: Wear sunglasses to reduce UV damage and avoid direct trauma to the eyes.
• Manage Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can increase the risk of eye diseases that lead to floaters.

Conclusion

Floaters are a common occurrence, particularly as we age. While most floaters are harmless and do not require treatment, a sudden increase or the presence of flashes and vision loss should not be ignored. If you experience these symptoms, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor immediately. By staying informed and proactive about your eye health, you can protect your vision and address any potential concerns before they become serious problems.