Vitreous Floaters

Vitreous Floaters
Tiny specks or cobweb-like shapes in your vision
What are vitreous floaters?
Vitreous floaters are tiny specks or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your field of
vision. They are often described as looking like flies, bugs, or dust specks. Floaters are
caused by tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear, jelly-like substance
that fills the inside of your eye.
What causes vitreous floaters?
Most vitreous floaters are caused by aging. As we age, the vitreous starts to shrink and
pull away from the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This can
cause tiny clumps of gel or cells to form inside the vitreous. These clumps cast shadows
on the retina, which we see as floaters.
Other causes of vitreous floaters include:
● Eye injuries: Trauma to the eye can cause bleeding into the vitreous, which can
lead to floaters.
● Eye infections: Inflammation inside the eye can also cause floaters.
● Retinal detachment: In rare cases, vitreous floaters can be a sign of a retinal
detachment, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of vitreous floaters
The most common symptom of vitreous floaters is seeing tiny specks or cobweb-like
shapes in your vision. These floaters may appear to drift across your field of vision as
you move your eye. Floaters are usually more noticeable when looking at a bright
background, such as a blank wall or the sky.
When to see a doctor
Most vitreous floaters are harmless and do not require medical treatment. However, you
should see an eye doctor if you experience any of the following:
● A sudden increase in the number of floaters

● Flashes of light in your vision
● Loss of peripheral vision
These symptoms could be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment, which are serious
conditions that can lead to vision loss. Early diagnosis and treatment of a retinal tear or
detachment can help prevent vision loss.
Treatment for vitreous floaters
There is no treatment for most vitreous floaters. However, if your floaters are causing
significant visual problems, your doctor may recommend a procedure called vitrectomy.
Vitrectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the vitreous from the eye.
Preventing vitreous floaters
There is no way to prevent vitreous floaters from forming. However, you can reduce
your risk of developing floaters by wearing protective eyewear when playing sports or
doing other activities that could injure your eye. You should also see an eye doctor
regularly for checkups.
Conclusion
Vitreous floaters are a common occurrence, especially as we age. Most floaters are
harmless and do not require medical treatment. However, you should see an eye doctor
if you experience any sudden changes in your vision, such as a sudden increase in the
number of floaters or flashes of light. Early diagnosis and treatment of a retinal tear or
detachment can help prevent vision loss.
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.