What Are the Differences Between Occasional Floaters and a Serious Eye Issue?
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Have you noticed tiny specks, threads, or cobweb-like shapes floating across your vision? These are known as eye floaters, and while they're common and often harmless, they can signal a problem with your eye health.
Today, our professionals at Retina Associates of St. Louis explore the key differences between occasional floaters and a more serious eye issue, so you can know when to seek help. If you have questions or want to schedule a comprehensive eye exam in St. Louis, MO, call now.
What are eye floaters?
First, what are eye floaters? Floaters are small clumps of cells inside the clear, gel-like substance that fills the interior of your eye. These clumps cast shadows on the retina to create "floaters." Typically, floaters look like:
- Strings or cobwebs
- Tiny dark dots or specks
- Transparent bubbles or threads
What causes floaters and flashes?
Flashes, another kind of visual disturbance, can also raise concerns. They appear when the vitreous gel tugs on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. This pulling action causes electrical impulses, which your brain interprets as flashes of light.
So, what causes floaters and flashes? There are a few possible causes, including:
- Age: As we get older, the vitreous gel inside our eyes begins to shrink and become more liquid. This causes it to pull away from the retina more often, resulting in floaters and flashes.
- Eye injuries or surgeries: Any trauma to the eye, such as a direct hit, can disrupt the vitreous gel and lead to floaters and flashes.
- Nearsightedness: People who are nearsighted are at a higher risk of developing floaters and flashes due to the elongation of their eyeballs.
- Retinal tears or detachments: In some cases, floaters and flashes can be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment.
When do floaters and flashes signal a serious problem?
While the occasional visual disturbance is typically harmless, the following symptoms point to a possible retinal tear or detachment:
- Sudden increase in the number of floaters
- Presence of a dark or shadow-like curtain over part of your vision
- Frequent flashes of light in one or both eyes
- Blurred or deteriorating vision in certain areas
Retinal tears or detachments are severe conditions that can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated. If you experience these symptoms, schedule an eye exam in St. Louis, MO right away.
What happens during a comprehensive eye exam?
During an exam at Retina Associates of St. Louis, our specialists use state-of-the-art technology to:
- Assess the condition of your retina
- Detect signs of retinal tears, detachment, or damage
- Develop a tailored treatment plan, if required
Even if your floaters and flashes seem insignificant, it's better to have peace of mind knowing your vision is in good hands.
Prevention tips for better retinal health
Although some changes in vision are unavoidable, you can protect yourself by following these preventive steps:
- Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams
- Protect your eyes from trauma or injury by wearing appropriate safety gear
- Control issues like high blood pressure and diabetes that can strain the eyes
Trust us to protect your vision
Your vision is priceless. Understanding the differences between occasional floaters and serious eye health concerns can help protect your sight before issues become serious.
What are eye floaters, and what causes floaters and flashes? At Retina Associates of St. Louis, we can answer your questions and provide care. If you're in St. Louis, MO, and concerned about a visual disturbance, schedule an eye exam today.