Eye floaters are a common phenomenon that many individuals experience at some point in their lives. These tiny specks or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your field of vision may be a natural part of aging, but understanding their symptoms, causes, and available treatments is essential for maintaining good eye health.
Symptoms of eye floaters
Eye floaters are characterized by the appearance of small, dark spots, cobweb-like strings, or specks that seem to "float" in your vision. They are particularly noticeable when you look at a plain background, such as a clear sky or a blank wall. While most floaters are harmless, experiencing a sudden onset of a significant number of floaters or flashes of light could indicate a more serious eye issue, requiring prompt attention.
Causes of eye floaters
Floaters occur when the vitreous, a gel-like substance in the eye, deteriorates and becomes more liquid. The collagen fibers within the vitreous can clump together, casting shadows on the retina and causing the perception of floaters.
What causes floaters in an eye
- Inflammation.
The back layers get irritated and the release of such intensification shapes them as floaters of an eye. The infection reaches the surface and causes similar symptoms. - Diabetic retinopathy.
Diabetes weakens the blood vessels, it damages the retina. Therefore, the occurrence of black floaters in eyes isn’t surprising. - Torn retina.
Retinal detachment causes extremely dangerous eye floaters because the structure is destroyed. Some refractive elements pull away from their right placement. Finally, the eye doesn’t receive enough nourishment because there is no direct access to the blood vessels that provide vital components. - Crystal-like accumulations.
This disorder is genetic, depositions ruin the cells inside. People take into account the changes in vision. Clients suffer from various flashes and floaters in the eye feeling also certain pain and discomfort. - Eye surgeries.
It often happens that providing operations requires the necessity of rehabilitation after it. The body is in a state of shock and a particular time is needed to recover completely. Therefore, it is a normal process. Occasionally, people use some medications that provoke different eye floaters types. We can explain it with the mechanism of the preparations’ actions. The sight organ absorbs liquids not at once, that is why flying flies occur. And this is a common reaction. - Hemorrhage.
Bleeding influences the surface a lot. And while patients think of eye floaters’ remedy at home, they see blood cells in fact but in unusual forms. However, they should come back to the definition of what hemorrhage is for coping with the further symptoms. - Tumors.
The irritator of such manifestations is cancer on the other parts of the body. Usually, the eyes get tumors that spread from other locations of the organism. So, treatment of floaters in the eye includes fighting diseases that stimulate the condition.
How to get rid of floater in an eye?
When should I worry about eye floaters?
While floaters are often harmless, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters.
- Flashes of light.
- Peripheral vision loss.
- A shadow or curtain over your field of vision.
These symptoms may indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which requires prompt medical intervention.
What can trigger eye floaters?
Several factors can trigger or exacerbate the perception of floaters, including:
- Prolonged periods of intense focus, such as staring at a computer screen for extended periods, can contribute to the perception of floaters.
- Inadequate hydration may lead to changes in the vitreous consistency, increasing the likelihood of floaters.
- Eye conditions associated with inflammation can contribute to the development of floaters.
How do you get rid of floaters?
In most cases, floaters do not require treatment and may become less noticeable over time. However, if floaters significantly impair your vision or are causing undue distress, consult with an eye care professional. Treatment options may include:
- Laser treatment can break up large floaters or seal blood vessels that are causing floaters.
- In severe cases, a vitrectomy may be recommended to remove the vitreous and replace it with a saline solution.
How long do eye floaters last?
Floaters can be persistent, and their duration varies from person to person. In many cases, people become accustomed to the presence of floaters, and they may become less bothersome over time. However, if you experience a sudden onset of floaters or other concerning symptoms, it's crucial to consult with an eye care professional promptly.