Have you seen tiny spots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes drifting in your vision? Eye floaters are usually harmless, but sudden changes can signal serious eye problems.
In this blog, we’ll explain why floaters appear and when you should schedule a comprehensive eye exam to protect your vision.
What are eye floaters?
Eye floaters appear as small, dark shapes that drift when you move your eyes. You may notice specks, threads, or cobweb-like shapes, especially against bright, plain backgrounds like a blue sky or white wall.¹
Floaters form when tiny clumps of collagen or cells cast shadows on your retina as light passes through the vitreous, the gel-like substance inside your eyes. These clumps are usually harmless but can be more noticeable as you age.
What causes eye floaters?
Several factors can contribute to the appearance of floaters:
- Vitreous changes with age: Over time, the gel-like vitreous inside the eye can liquefy and form tiny clumps or strands, which cast shadows on the retina that appear as floaters.
- Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD): When the vitreous separates from the retina, it can trigger a noticeable increase in floaters and sometimes flashes of light.
- Eye trauma or surgery: Injuries to the eye or procedures like cataract surgery can introduce particles or disturbances in the vitreous that show up as floaters.
- Inflammation or eye infections: Conditions such as uveitis or other inflammatory eye disorders can leave debris in the vitreous, creating floating shapes in your vision.
When floaters in the eye may be serious
Most floaters are harmless, but call an eye doctor immediately if you notice¹:
- A rapid or noticeable increase in the number of floaters
- Sudden flashes of light
- A dark shadow or curtain appearing in part of your vision
- Loss of peripheral (or side) vision
These could indicate retinal tears or detachments, which require urgent care to prevent permanent vision loss.
How to get rid of eye floaters
During a comprehensive eye exam, our experienced eye doctors in Omaha and Lincoln can examine your retina and vitreous to determine the cause of floaters. Early detection allows for timely care and helps prevent complications.
Eye floaters treatment depends on the underlying issue and can range from careful monitoring to procedures that repair retinal tears or detachments. In most cases, floaters can be managed safely without invasive measures.
Lifestyle tips to reduce eye strain from floaters
Even though you may not be able to prevent floaters entirely, these strategies can help reduce eye strain and make floaters less noticeable:
- Step away from screens periodically to give your eyes a rest
- Use well-lit areas for reading or working to reduce eye strain
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to minimize glare and protect your eyes
- Schedule regular eye exams to monitor your eye health
Keep your vision healthy and clear
Seeing floaters can be alarming, but knowing why they appear and recognizing the warning signs helps you stay in control of your eye health. Schedule an appointment at ProEye Vision Center in Omaha or Lincoln today to safeguard your vision and address any concerns before they become serious.
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