the Changes in Your Floaters: Is It Physiological?

Foggy floaters

Hello Doctor: My myopia is -4.00/-7.50.
I have had floaters since my senior year of high school, but at that time there was only one small spot, and I soon got used to it and didn't pay much attention to it.
However, a few months ago, I noticed that the floaters have slightly increased (about two or three more).
Although I have undergone a dilated eye exam and there were no significant issues, the newly appeared floaters feel different from before; when I look up at a bright area indoors, it feels like a small mist suddenly passes in front of my eyes and then disappears.
Is this symptom also a type of physiological floaters?

Ji Wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/01

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, the shapes of floaters can vary widely, including dot-like, round, cloudy, wavy, irregular filamentous, and amoeba-like forms.
As long as you have undergone a fundus examination and there are no issues, there is no need to worry; you can simply continue to observe and monitor.
The Ophthalmology Department of Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
We hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pi-Lin.

Reply Date: 2015/07/01

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your question regarding the changes in your floaters, particularly in the context of your myopia and the recent developments you've noticed.
Floaters, or "muscae volitantes," are small spots or strands that drift through your field of vision. They are typically 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 perception of floaters. In individuals with myopia (nearsightedness), the risk of developing floaters can be higher due to the elongation of the eyeball, which can lead to changes in the vitreous.

The fact that you have noticed an increase in the number of floaters, particularly with the new sensation of a "fog" passing through your vision, is certainly worth discussing further. While many floaters are benign and part of the natural aging process, any sudden changes in the number or type of floaters can warrant a more thorough examination.
Your previous dilated eye examination, which showed no significant issues, is reassuring. However, the new symptoms you describe—especially the sensation of a fog passing through your vision—could indicate a few possibilities. One concern is that this could be related to a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), which is common in individuals with myopia. PVD occurs when the vitreous gel separates from the retina, and while it is often harmless, it can sometimes lead to more serious conditions such as retinal tears or detachments.

Another possibility is that the new floaters could be related to changes in the vitreous that are not yet fully understood. The fact that they appear more prominently in bright light suggests that they are indeed floaters rather than other visual disturbances, but it is essential to monitor these changes closely.

In summary, while the changes you are experiencing could be a physiological response related to your myopia and the natural aging of the vitreous, it is crucial to remain vigilant. I recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment with your ophthalmologist, especially if you notice any additional symptoms such as flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, or any changes in your peripheral vision. These could be signs of more serious conditions that require immediate attention.

In the meantime, maintaining regular eye examinations is essential, particularly given your history of myopia and the recent changes in your vision. Your eye care professional can provide you with the best guidance tailored to your specific situation. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope this information helps clarify your concerns!

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