Floaters: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Floaters, or "flying mosquitoes," are small spots or shapes that appear in your field of vision, often described as black dots, cobwebs, or strands. They are a common occurrence, especially among individuals with myopia (nearsightedness) or those who have undergone eye surgeries, such as laser treatment for retinal tears. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and when to seek help regarding floaters is crucial for maintaining eye health.


1. Causes of Floaters
Floaters are primarily caused by changes in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous can become more liquid and may pull away from the retina, leading to the formation of floaters. Other causes include:
- Myopia: Individuals with higher degrees of nearsightedness are more prone to floaters due to the elongation of the eyeball, which can cause changes in the vitreous.

- Retinal Detachment or Tears: If the vitreous pulls away from the retina too forcefully, it can cause tears, leading to more significant visual disturbances.

- Inflammation: Conditions like uveitis can lead to the presence of floaters.

- Eye Surgery: Procedures like cataract surgery or laser treatment for retinal issues can also result in floaters.


2. Symptoms and Variations
You mentioned experiencing a small black spot in dim lighting that disappears after a few seconds. This could be a transient floater, which is common and usually not a cause for concern. However, the fixed black dot in your right eye that moves with your eye's motion is more concerning. This could indicate a more persistent floater or possibly a sign of a retinal issue, especially since you have a history of retinal surgery.


3. When to Seek Help
You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Sudden Increase in Floaters: A sudden increase in the number of floaters can indicate a retinal tear or detachment.

- Flashes of Light: Seeing flashes of light along with floaters can also be a sign of retinal issues.

- Loss of Peripheral Vision: If you notice a shadow or curtain effect in your vision, it is crucial to seek help promptly.

- Changes in Vision: Any significant changes in your vision should be evaluated by an eye care professional.


4. Age and Normalcy of Floaters
Floaters can occur at any age, but they are more common in individuals over 50 due to the natural aging process of the eye. However, younger individuals, especially those with high myopia, can also experience floaters. The presence of floaters does not necessarily correlate with the degree of myopia; some people with severe myopia may not experience floaters, while others with mild myopia may.


Conclusion
In summary, floaters are generally benign but can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, especially in individuals with a history of retinal issues. Given your background of myopia and previous retinal surgery, it is advisable to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any changes in the frequency, size, or nature of the floaters, or if you experience any of the warning signs mentioned above, you should consult an eye care professional for a thorough examination. Regular eye check-ups are essential, especially for those with pre-existing conditions, to ensure the health and safety of your vision.