Posted by: Aker Kasten Eye Center in Floaters on January 15, 2020
Floaters are gray or black specks or strings that can develop in one’s vision. Floaters will drift along with the movement of your eye and can be difficult to look at directly. This is because these floaters develop inside the liquid of the eyes, called the vitreous. Very small fibers in the fluid can clump and result in shadows on the retina—causing the appearance of floaters.
While most floaters are mildly bothersome and harmless, other times they may be an indication of a more serious problem. This is especially true for patients who notice a dramatic increase in the number and size of their eye floaters, or if they experience increased floaters alongside flashes of light and loss of peripheral vision. These symptoms may be a sign of a more serious problem that needs immediate medical attention such as retinal detachment.
What causes floaters?
In most cases, floaters are caused by age-related eye changes. However, they may also be caused by inflammation in the back of the eye, bleeding in the eye, the use of eye medications, recent eye surgeries, or a torn retina. This is why patients should have their eyes evaluated on a regular basis, especially if there are changes to the floaters that have always been present.
What can be done for eye floaters?
When eye floaters become large enough and dark enough to impair one’s vision, it may be time to speak to a doctor about treatment options. Treatment may include the use of laser light to break down floaters in the vitreous fluid, or surgery to remove the vitreous fluid and replace it with another substance to maintain the shape of the eye. With both procedures, there are risks to consider.
Is it time for an evaluation with the team at Aker Kasten Eye Center?
Our doctors at Aker Kasten Eye Center in Boca Raton, FL are committed to helping patients with their vision and eye health. If you are experiencing an increase in floaters, or are in need of a routine eye examination, we welcome you to call (561) 338-7722 to schedule an appointment with our providers at 1445 NW Boca Raton Boulevard. We accept new and returning patients into our practice for comprehensive care.