Eye floaters are a common visual phenomenon that many people experience at some point in their lives. These small, shadowy specks or shapes that drift across your field of vision can be quite disconcerting, especially if you notice them frequently or if they increase in number over time. But are eye floaters a normal occurrence, or is their presence a sign of something more serious?
 

What are Eye Floaters and How Do They Form?

Eye floaters are small, semi-transparent or opaque specks or shapes that appear to float across your field of vision. They are typically caused by the natural aging process of the vitreous, the clear, jelly-like substance that fills the inside of your eye.
 

As you age, the vitreous begins to shrink and pull away from the back of the eye, a process known as vitreous detachment. This can cause the vitreous to become more liquid-like and develop small clumps or strands that cast shadows on the retina, resulting in the appearance of eye floaters.
 

Other potential causes of eye floaters include:

• Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)
• Bleeding or inflammation inside the eye
• Certain eye conditions, such as retinal tears or detachment
• Exposure to ultraviolet light or other forms of radiation
• Injury or trauma to the eye

Normal vs. Abnormal Eye Floaters

It's important to understand that the occasional eye floater is a normal and common occurrence, especially as you get older. In fact, most people will experience some degree of eye floaters at some point in their lives, and they are typically harmless.
 

However, there are certain situations where the presence of eye floaters may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition:

• Sudden Onset or Increase in Floaters: If you suddenly notice a significant increase in the number of eye floaters, or if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as flashes of light or a sudden decrease in your field of vision, this could be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment. These conditions require prompt medical attention to prevent permanent vision loss.
• Floaters with Flashes of Light: If your eye floaters are accompanied by flashes of light, this may indicate a more serious issue, such as a retinal tear or detachment. Seek immediate medical care if you experience this combination of symptoms.
• Floaters with Peripheral Vision Loss: If your eye floaters are accompanied by a loss or obstruction of your peripheral vision, this could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a retinal detachment. Again, seek medical attention right away.

The Importance of Regular Comprehensive Eye Exams

Regular comprehensive eye exams with an optometrist are essential for maintaining the health of your eyes and detecting any potential issues, including eye floaters. During these exams, your optometrist will thoroughly examine your eyes, including the retina, to ensure that there are no underlying conditions that may be causing your eye floaters or other vision problems.
 

If your optometrist determines that your eye floaters are a normal occurrence and not indicative of a more serious condition, they can provide guidance on managing them and reassure you that they are generally harmless. However, if your optometrist suspects a more serious underlying condition, they can refer you to an ophthalmologist (a medical doctor who specializes in eye care) for further evaluation and treatment.
 

Treatment Options for Eye Floaters

While eye floaters are generally harmless and do not require treatment in most cases, there are a few options available for managing persistent or bothersome eye floaters:

• Observation and Adaptation: In many cases, the best approach is to simply observe and adapt to the presence of eye floaters. Over time, your brain may become better at ignoring or filtering out the floaters, making them less noticeable.
• Vitrectomy: In some cases, a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy may be recommended to remove the vitreous and the eye floaters. This is typically reserved for cases where the floaters are significantly impairing vision or causing significant distress.
• Laser Therapy: In some cases, laser therapy may be used to break up or disrupt the eye floaters, making them less noticeable. This is a less invasive option than a vitrectomy, but it may not be suitable for all types of eye floaters.

It's important to work closely with your optometrist to determine the best course of action for managing your eye floaters, taking into account your individual circumstances and the severity of your symptoms.
 

Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam with Eye Carumba Optometry Today

Eye floaters are a common and often harmless visual phenomenon that many people experience, especially as they age. While the occasional eye floater is generally nothing to worry about, it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms that may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
 

If you have been experiencing persistent or bothersome eye floaters, schedule an eye exam with Eye Carumba Optometry. We can help determine the cause of your eye floaters and provide guidance on the best course of action for managing them. Visit our office in San Francisco, California, or call (415) 360-6900 to book an appointment today.