EYE FLOATERS AND FACTS
Description: Eye floaters manifest as shadows of lines or flecks in a person’s
line of vision. They may appear as few or many strands of grayish drifting
shadows. Floaters are easily seen by the patient if he looks at the bright
sky or a plain wall. The “floating squiggly lines” may move as the person
looks around but may also settle at the lower part of the sight as a person’s
view becomes focused.
Causes and Cases: Many people diagnosed with eye floaters do not consider
treatment because having eye floaters is part of the aging process. Adults
over the age of 50 are the most common to develop floaters due to changes
in the structure and composition of the eyes. This condition is classified
as extremely common among adults especially to those who have myopia, cataract
surgery, diabetes, or eye injury. By age 70, many have eye floaters but are
not just aware of their existence.
Mainly, floaters are created when the vitreous humor of our eyes contract
over age. As it contracts, cells may clump together and cast shadows on the
eye’s retina. These shadows are the floaters a person see about.
Cure and Treatment: Because of its commonality, many patients with eye floaters
and ophthalmologists do not really require treatment or cure. Although in
some extreme cases, a procedure called vitrectomy (the removal of floaters
by replacing the eye’s gel-like fluid with a saline solution) or even laser
treatment are recommended.
Generally, eye floaters are not dangerous. A major concern for eye floater
patients is the annoyance caused by the condition. They are more of a bother
than a health or sight risk. Many people tend to deal with them over time
and not require any serious remedy or treatment. Some floaters may even disappear
over time.
However, it is important to note that in rare cases, the sudden increase of
floaters may signify retinal tear that can lead to more serious eye conditions.
Retinal tears or appearance of flashes may lead to more eye injuries or even
vision loss if not treated promptly. In this case, consult an eye doctor immediately
for an exact diagnosis and advice.