Have you ever noticed specks, squiggly lines, or shadowy blobs drifting across your vision? No matter how hard you try to focus on them, they always seem to float away. These are called eye floaters, and for the most part, they’re nothing to worry about.
Floaters are a normal part of aging, but sometimes they can signal an underlying issue. So, how do you know if yours are harmless or a reason to see your eye doctor? Let’s take a closer look.
What causes eye floaters?
Eye floaters develop when the gel-like substance inside your eye, called the vitreous, starts to shrink and form tiny clumps. These clumps cast shadows on your retina, creating those floating shapes you see.
Most floaters are harmless and simply part of the natural aging process, especially after age 50. However, other factors can also lead to floaters, including:
- Eye injuries – Any trauma to the eye can lead to floaters.
- Inflammation (Uveitis) – Swelling inside the eye can trigger floaters.
- Diabetic retinopathy – Bleeding in the eye from diabetes can cause floaters.
- Retinal tears or detachment – This is serious and needs immediate attention.
When are floaters nothing to worry about?
If you’ve had floaters for years and they only appear occasionally, especially when looking at a bright sky or computer screen, there’s usually no need for concern. Most harmless floaters:
- Appear slowly over time
- Stay about the same size and shape
- Move around but don’t disrupt your vision
- Aren’t accompanied by other vision changes
Many people learn to ignore these mild floaters, and the brain adapts over time, making them less noticeable.
When should you see an eye doctor?
While most floaters are harmless, sudden vision changes should never be ignored. Certain symptoms can signal a more serious issue. Call our eye doctor in Nashville, TN right away if you experience:
- A sudden increase in floaters, especially if they appear all at once.
- Flashes of light in your peripheral vision.
- A dark shadow or curtain moving across your vision.
- Blurred or distorted vision along with new floaters.
These could be signs of a retinal detachment, which is a medical emergency. The sooner it’s treated, the better the chances of saving your vision.
Keeping your eyes healthy
Floaters are usually harmless, but it’s always good to stay on top of your eye health. Regular eye exams help keep your vision clear and catch any potential problems early. If you’ve noticed new or worsening floaters, don’t wait—schedule an eye exam in Nashville, TN at Lemoncelli Eyecare today. Call us or request an appointment online!