We often take for granted the gift of clarity in our vision. It is not until something shows up out of the ordinary that we have cause for concern. Eye floaters are one such issue when it comes to vision that can make us worry. Eye floaters are debris in the eyes that look like tiny strings, cobwebs or specks that move across the vision of the eye. These eye floaters are visible because they block out a small amount of light that casts a shadow on the retina. The retina is the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye responsible for receiving light that signals the images we see to the brain for interpretation.
Eye floaters are common, especially with age. Although eye floaters can fade or disappear on their own, they may be indicative of an underlying eye condition. It is typical for the vitreous humor, gel-like substance of the eye, to be impacted in different ways as we age and eye floaters are a common occurrence. Eye floaters, especially if they come on suddenly and increase in amount, can indicate a detached retina or high fluid pressure in the eye. If you experience flashes of light or a shadowing of your peripheral vision when eye floaters come about, you should be seen by an eye doctor immediately.
If eye floaters are determined by an ophthalmologist to be mild and not a cause for concern, they may go away on their own or your vision will adapt to them, and you may not even notice them after a while. If eye floaters are impairing your vision or an ophthalmologist diagnoses a more serious eye condition, there are 2 surgery options to get rid of eye floaters, a vitrectomy and laser therapy. A vitrectomy involves removing the vitreous humor and replacing it with a similar solution free of eye floaters. Laser therapy involves breaking up the clumps of protein that make up the eye floaters. Lifestyle changes may also decrease eye floaters by eating healthy, staying hydrated, resting your eyes from screen devices and wearing protective eyewear when exposed to UV rays.
At Eye Institute of South Jersey, P.C. we can offer you solutions on how to get rid of eye floaters and determine what the cause may be. A comprehensive eye care exam will allow our doctors to assess the health of your eyes and strategize prevention methods for clear vision. Book your appointment today by calling 856-205-1100 or visiting online at WEBSITE.