Eye floaters are tiny particles that drift across your visual field. While they take many forms, most of them are dark, shadowy figures that seem to move as you see things in front of you. Your expert eye care specialist from Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry talks about them in detail.
Possible Causes
Most eye floaters occur as part of the aging process. Over time, the protein and collagen fibers supporting the vitreous, the gel-like sac at the back of your eyes, may start to weaken. This may cause the vitreous to shrink, eventually turning into shreds that accumulate in your eyes. They may cast shadows as they float across your field of vision, which you may see as squiggly lines, threadlike strands, cobwebs, rings, or black dots.
Eye floaters are a common symptom when you have torn or detached retina. They may also appear when you develop diabetic eye disease, hypertensive retinopathy, or uveitis. Additionally, your vitreous may shrink as a complication of an eye injury, tumors, or surgeries. If you see any floating microscopic specs, it is best to seek help from your trusted optometrist as soon as possible. We may perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine their root cause, so we can manage them accordingly.
Treating Eye Floaters
Eye floaters are harmless most of the time. While they may be bothersome, they usually fade away later on. If they continue to grow in size or number, however, they may compromise your vision and quality of life. When this happens, we may suggest undergoing vitrectomy. This is a surgical procedure that involves removing your vitreous, along with its floating debris. We may also recommend using a laser beam to break up the floaters, making them less noticeable.
If you have any further questions about floaters, turn to Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry. From managing various ocular diseases to LASIK eye surgery evaluation, we can help you. Call us today at (703) 660-9494, or complete our form to learn more about our eye care services and products. We serve Alexandria and the surrounding VA communities.