What To Do If You Start Seeing
Eye Floaters: What They Are and When to Worry
Have you ever noticed tiny black or gray specks, strings, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision? These are called eye floaters, and they’re more common than you might think—affecting nearly 70% of people at some point.
What Causes Floaters?
Floaters are usually the result of age-related changes in the eye’s vitreous—the clear, gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina. As we age, the vitreous begins to shrink, causing protein fibers within it to clump together. These clumps cast shadows on the retina, which appear as floaters in your field of vision.
When to Seek Medical Attention
In most cases, floaters are harmless and fade over time. However, seek immediate medical help if you notice:
- A sudden increase in floaters
- Flashes of light
- Blurred vision
- Dark curtain-like shadows
- Eye pain
These could be signs of retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, or other serious conditions that require prompt treatment.
Tips for Managing Floaters
While most floaters don’t require treatment, here are a few things you can do:
- Move your eyes: Gently looking up and down can shift floaters out of your direct line of sight.
- Support eye health: A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, vitamin A, and antioxidants can promote long-term eye wellness.
- Stay hydrated and limit screen time to reduce eye strain.
If floaters ever interfere significantly with your vision, consult an eye care professional. In rare cases, treatments like vitrectomy or laser therapy may be recommended.
Taking care of your eyes today can help preserve your vision for years to come. 👁️✨