What You Need to Know About Floaters in Your Vision
Floaters are small, semi-transparent or cloudy specks or strands that can be seen in your vision, particularly in bright light or against a light-colored background. They are usually benign and common, but can sometimes be a sign of an underlying eye condition.
Q: What causes floaters?
A: Floaters are caused by age-related changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous gel can become more liquid and pull away from the retina, creating the appearance of floaters. Other possible causes of floaters include injury to the eye, inflammation, or certain medical conditions such as uveitis or diabetic retinopathy.
Q: What are the symptoms of floaters?
A: The most common symptom of floaters is seeing small, semi-transparent or cloudy specks or strands in your vision. These can be more noticeable in bright light or against a light-colored background. Some people may also experience flashes of light or "floaters" that look like cobwebs or spider webs. In rare cases, floaters can be accompanied by eye pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light.
Q: How are floaters diagnosed?
A: A comprehensive eye exam is usually necessary to diagnose and evaluate floaters. During the exam, your eye doctor will perform a series of tests to assess your vision and the health of your eyes. These tests may include a visual acuity test, a dilated eye exam, and imaging tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or ultrasound.
Q: How are floaters treated?
A: In most cases, floaters do not require treatment and can be monitored with regular eye exams. However, if floaters are causing significant vision problems or discomfort, your eye doctor may recommend a vitrectomy, which is a surgical procedure to remove the vitreous gel and replace it with a clear fluid. This can help improve vision and reduce the appearance of floaters.
Q: Can floaters be prevented?
A: There is no sure way to prevent floaters, as they are a natural part of the aging process. However, maintaining good eye health through regular eye exams and proper care can help detect any underlying conditions that may be contributing to floaters. Additionally, wearing protective eyewear during activities that could potentially cause eye injury can help reduce the risk of developing floaters.
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