It’s likely that you have experienced eye floaters at least once before.  But what exactly is an eye floater? Eye floaters (myodesopsias) appear as black spots, threads, or cobwebs that float through your vision as you move your eyes. They are a result of fibers clumping together in the vitreous fluid which create shadows on the retina. These shadows are usually harmless, but they can be treated by your Orlando ophthalmologist if the need arises.

Myopic, or nearsighted, patients are more likely to experience eye floaters. Medical conditions such as Asteroid Hyalosis and Amyloidosis can also increase the risk of eye floaters.  Diabetics may also get them as a result of increased vitreous glucose levels along with other causes.

Eye floaters tend to move away from any movement in the eye, so you may notice them more when moving your eyes.

The human eye contains three chambers, including the vitreous chamber. This chamber is filled with a jelly-like liquid that helps retain the shape of the eye as well as keep the retina in place. Aging can cause certain types of floaters, as protein fibers in the eyes get smaller and stick together over time. Some floaters may disappear, while others remain. Other forms of floaters can cause a shadow effect. More serious causes of floaters include injury, infection, and inflammation. These conditions should be addressed quickly as they can cause damage to the retina. Hemorrhages, tears, and detachments are all serious eye issues that can result in lasting eye floaters.

If you are prone to eye floaters, your Orlando ophthalmologist can help you to understand the condition and provide any solutions that may be required. Even if you have had floaters in the past, developing new floaters or seeing flashes of light can indicate new issues. Some floaters may go away on their own, but others indicate new health issues, so it is important to check in with an eye doctor about any changes in your eyes or vision.

In 1996, Orlando ophthalmologist Dr. Magruder opened his practice and introduced locals to Central Florida’s first refractive surgery center. Since then, he has continued to innovate by introducing game-changing technology and pursuing ongoing education to master the latest techniques. To learn more about the Orlando Ophthalmologist and what Magruder Laser Vision can do for you, call us at (407) 843-5665 or read our blog for more information!