Have you ever noticed tiny, shadowy specks, threads, or cobwebs drifting across your vision? These common visual disturbances are known as eye floaters. Learn now from Round Rock Eye Consultants in Round Rock, Texas.
Don't Ignore the Squiggles: Understanding Eye Floaters
Don't Ignore the Squiggles: Understanding Eye Floaters
What You See Is a Shadow
Floaters are not foreign objects on the surface of your eye. They are actually tiny clumps of collagen fibers from the vitreous—the clear, gel-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. As the vitreous ages and liquefies, these strands cast shadows onto the retina, which is what you perceive as moving shapes.
Age and Health Are Risk Factors
Floaters are most often attributed to the normal aging process. However, certain conditions put you at a higher risk, including nearsightedness, diabetes, and having previously undergone cataract surgery. Regular check-ups at a comprehensive eye care center are essential to monitor these risk factors.
Know When to Seek Urgent Care
While most floaters are benign, a sudden shower of new floaters, often accompanied by flashes of light or a dark shadow appearing in your peripheral vision, is an emergency. These symptoms could indicate a retinal tear or detachment. Timely diagnosis using advanced eye care equipment and precision eye care techniques can make the difference between successful treatment and permanent vision loss.
Diagnosis is Quick and Easy
Floaters are diagnosed during a simple, dilated eye exam. During this process, your doctor administers drops to widen your pupil, allowing them to thoroughly examine the back of your eye. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may range from observation for mild cases to a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy for more serious or vision-impairing conditions, ensuring you receive the highest standard from qualified eye care specialists.
Eye floaters are a widespread phenomenon, but they should never be ignored. Though often benign, only a thorough examination can rule out serious complications like a detached retina. If you notice any sudden changes in your vision, including new floaters or flashes of light, contact our office immediately. Schedule an appointment today to keep your vision clear and healthy.