Eye floaters are a common visual occurrence that can be confusing at first. If you’ve ever noticed tiny shapes drifting across your vision, you’re not alone. Knowing what causes them and when to seek medical advice is important for eye health.
What Are Eye Floaters?
Eye floaters appear as small spots, lines, or cobweb-like shapes that move across your vision. They are most noticeable when looking at bright surfaces like a clear sky or a white wall. These shapes move when your eyes move, making them difficult to focus on directly.
What Causes Eye Floaters?
Floaters usually develop due to natural aging. The eye contains a gel-like substance called the vitreous, which helps maintain its shape. Over time, this gel becomes more liquid, causing microscopic fibers to clump together. These clumps cast tiny shadows on the retina, which we see as floaters.
In some cases, floaters may be linked to:
- Eye infections
- Inflammation inside the eye (uveitis)
- Retinal tears or detachment
Who Is Most at Risk?
Some people are more likely to experience floaters than others. You may be at higher risk if you:
- Are nearsighted
- Have had cataract surgery
- Have diabetes, which can lead to diabetic eye problems
- Are aging
When to Be Concerned
Most floaters are harmless, but sudden changes in vision could indicate a serious issue. Seek immediate medical help if you experience:
- A sudden increase in floaters
- Flashes of light
- A dark shadow moving across your vision
These symptoms may signal retinal detachment, which requires urgent treatment to prevent vision loss.
How Are Floaters Diagnosed?
An eye doctor can diagnose floaters with a dilated eye exam. Eye drops enlarge the pupils, allowing the doctor to examine the vitreous and retina for abnormalities.
Treatment Options
For most people, floaters fade over time and don’t require treatment. However, if they interfere with vision, two options are available:
- Vitrectomy: A surgery that removes the vitreous gel and replaces it with a saline solution.
- Laser Therapy: A procedure that breaks up floaters to make them less noticeable.
Both treatments carry some risks, so they are only recommended for severe cases.
Managing Floaters with Lifestyle Changes
If your floaters are mild, these habits may help:
- Eye movement exercises: Moving your eyes up and down can shift floaters out of view.
- Healthy diet: Eating foods rich in omega-3, vitamin A, and zinc supports eye health.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can worsen eye problems over time.
Prevention and Long-Term Eye Health
While floaters are often a natural part of aging, regular eye check-ups help detect potential problems early. Dr. Rick Ansorge advises, “If you notice sudden vision changes, consult an eye doctor immediately.”
By understanding what causes floaters and how to manage them, you can take proactive steps to maintain good vision for years to come. Regular monitoring and timely medical attention are key to keeping your eyes healthy.