What Are Eye Floaters and When Should You See Our Optometrists near You?
Have you ever noticed tiny specks, strings, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision, especially when looking at a bright background? These are called eye floaters, and while they are usually harmless, they can sometimes signal a serious problem. At Middletown Eye Care in Middletown, DE, and New Castle Eye Associates in New Castle, DE, we are here to help you understand what floaters are, why they occur, and when it is time to seek professional care.
What Are Eye Floaters?
Eye floaters are small clumps of cells or gel that form in the vitreous, the clear, jelly-like substance inside your eye. As light passes through the eye, these clumps cast shadows on the retina, creating the appearance of seeing spots in your vision.
Eye floaters are most noticeable when looking at a bright, uniform surface, like a clear sky or a white wall. They may appear to move when you try to focus on them, but they typically drift out of view.
What Causes Eye Floaters?
Floaters are a natural part of the aging process and are most commonly caused by changes in the vitreous as we get older. However, other factors can contribute to their development, including:
• Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): A common condition where the vitreous pulls away from the retina.
• Eye Injuries or Trauma: Damage to the eye can lead to floaters.
• Inflammation: Conditions like uveitis can cause floaters due to inflammation in the eye.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: Changes in the retina caused by diabetes can lead to floaters.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While most floaters are harmless, certain symptoms may indicate a more serious issue, such as a retinal tear or detachment. Seek immediate care if you experience:
• A sudden increase in floaters
• Flashes of light in your vision
• A shadow or curtain-like effect over part of your vision
How We Help
At Middletown Eye Care and New Castle Eye Associates, our experienced optometrists provide comprehensive eye exams to evaluate and monitor eye floaters. If necessary, we will refer you to a specialist for further eye floater treatment.
Call Our Eye Doctors near You to Schedule Your Eye Exam Today
If you are concerned about eye floaters or want to ensure your eyes are healthy, call Middletown Eye Care at (302) 378-8818 or New Castle Eye Associates at (302) 276-0170 to schedule an appointment today. Our team is here to help with eyeglasses, contact lenses, and general eye care!
