When Should You See an Eye Doctor for Floaters?

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At Clewner & Kelly Eye Center we often receive questions about eye floaters and when they might signal something serious. Floaters in the eye are common and usually not a cause for alarm. However, there are specific circumstances when seeing an eye doctor becomes crucial. Read on to learn the common causes of floaters, and when it's advisable to contact our center in Boca Raton, FL for treatment for floaters in the eye.

What are eye floaters?

Eye floaters are tiny spots, specks, or lines that drift through your field of vision. They are particularly noticeable when you look at something bright, like a blue sky or a white computer screen. Floaters occur when the vitreous, a gel-like substance that fills about 80% of your eye and helps it maintain a round shape, slowly shrinks. This process creates tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the eye, which appear as shadows on your retina.

What causes floaters in the eye?

The causes of floaters can vary, but they mostly develop as natural age-related changes in the vitreous gel. Over time, the vitreous partially liquefies, which makes it more likely to clump and cast shadows. Other causes include nearsightedness, eye surgeries, eye trauma, and complications from cataract surgery.

When should you see an eye doctor?

It's generally a good idea to schedule an eye exam at our Boca Raton, FL facility if you notice a sudden increase in eye floaters, especially if they are accompanied by additional symptoms that could indicate a more serious condition. Here are some signs that you should see an eye doctor right away:

  • Sudden increase in floaters
  • Flashes of light in the same eye as the floaters
  • Loss of peripheral vision
  • A dark shadow or curtain appearing across your vision

These symptoms could be signs of retinal detachment, retinal tears, eye infections, or eye inflammation, all of which require prompt attention.

What is the treatment for floaters in the eye?

In many cases, treatment for floaters in the eye is not necessary. Most eye floaters diminish and become less bothersome over time. However, if they interfere with vision or result from an underlying condition, treatment options may include laser therapy to disrupt and minimize the appearance of floaters or vitrectomy, a surgery that removes the vitreous gel along with its floating debris.

How can Clewner & Kelly Eye Center help?

At Clewner & Kelly Eye Center, we understand that eye floaters can be a nuisance and sometimes a concern. If you're experiencing disturbances in your vision or are concerned about your eye floaters, don't hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to provide thorough examinations and discuss whether treatment might be right for you.

Treat eye floaters in Boca Raton

Are eye floaters affecting your quality of life or vision? Schedule a visit to Clewner & Kelly Eye Center in Boca Raton, FL today. Let our team ensure that your vision is clear and your eyes are healthy. Whether it's routine care or more specialized treatment, we are here to support your eye health in every way possible.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.