What Causes Eye Floaters and When Should You Be Concerned?

Eye floaters are those tiny, sometimes pesky specks, dots, or cobweb-like shadows drifting in your field of vision. While they may seem concerning, experiencing eye floaters is common. But it is critical to understand the cause of floaters and, most importantly, when you should contact your medical provider to help you maintain good eye health.

What Exactly Are Eye Floaters?

Think of it this way: when you look at the bright blue sky or a bright white wall, and then you see small wispy shapes moving in your vision. This is what eye floaters are - small clumps of gel or cellular debris that float in the vitreous, the clear, gel-like material that fills the inside of your eye. They cast small shadows onto your retina, resulting in the perception of movement.

The Science Behind Floaters: Why Do They Occur?

Over time, the vitreous gel in the eye becomes more liquid and less structured due to normal aging. This aging can cause the gel to shrink and form small clumps that cast shadows on the retina, which we experience as floaters. One can think of it as small pieces of dust within a glass of water. The particles float with the water, yet, do not settle.

The Common Causes of Eye Floaters:

1. Aging: The vitreous body becomes smaller and clumps together, creating shadows, which are seen by the retina.
2. Inflammation (e.g., Posterior Uveitis): The eye becomes inflamed with either infection or autoimmune disease.
3. Bleeding: Diabetes, high blood pressure, or an eye injury can cause bleeding into the vitreous cavity.
4. Retinal Tears /Retinal Detachment: The shrinking vitreous can pull on the retina leading to tears that may result in vision loss if not addressed.
5. Eye surgery /Medications: Medications can be injected into the eye or surgical procedures performed which will leave an air or silicone bubble resulting in floaters.
   
   

When to Be Worried: Red Flags Requiring Urgent Attention

Not all floaters are concerning; generally, the majority of floaters are not something to worry about. However, some symptoms require you to see a medical doctor or eye doctor like Dr. Rwituja Thomas Grover at Vision Eye Centre in Delhi:

• A sudden increase in the number of floaters
• Sudden flashes of light
• A shadow that resembles a curtain in your peripheral vision
• Loss of peripheral vision
• Eye tenderness or significant alteration in vision

These symptoms could be suggestive of serious conditions (retinal tears or detachments), which should be attended as soon as possible.

Professional Opinion and Treatment

Vision Eye Centre is one of the premier facilities in Delhi NCR. Oculoplastic surgeons, whose training and expertise includes diagnosis and comprehensive examinations, will be happy to see you. Their evolution of expertise also includes advanced and diagnostic tools to assess if the symptoms you are experiencing are benign or evolving.

Options for treatment include:

• Observation for minor cases
• Laser treatment to a treat large floater
• Vitrectomy surgery in more severe cases (removal and replacement of the vitreous gel)

Prevention and Eye Care

Not all floaters are preventable, but general eye health can help:

• Regular eye exams
• A balanced diet that is rich in eye-friendly nutrients
• Protection from UV rays
• Managing underlying conditions that are linked to health ailments such as diabetes.

Conclusion

Eye floaters are generally harmless, but you should take them seriously. Understanding the causes and when to seek medical attention from medical professionals will employ protection for your vision. If you are experiencing persistent or sudden floaters, seeking the best eye doctor in Delhi NCR to ensure any severe issues are eliminated. Dr. Rwituja Thomas Grover is the best Oculoplastic surgeon in New Delhi at Vision Eye Centre, who will diagnose and treat all eye conditions competently and accurately.

Book an Appointment Today!

If you have experienced floating circles of dots in your vision. Do not ignore eye floaters and visit the best eye hospital in Delhi, Vision Eye Centre where professional evaluations are provided.

📍 Vision Eye Centre - 19, Siri Fort Road, New Delhi- 110049

📞 Call Now to Make Your Appointment - 9711004422

💻 Visit Our Website for More Information - www.visioneyecentre.com

Remember, our eyes are invaluable - you should seek medical attention when something does not feel right.