Eye floaters are those tiny spots or specks that float across your vision. They are usually harmless and are caused by changes in the vitreous inside your eyes. The vitreous is a jelly-like substance that fills the inside of your eyes. As you age, the vitreous may shrink and pull away from the retina, causing floaters to appear.
Do Eye Floaters Go Away on Their Own?
Most of the time, eye floaters are harmless and will go away on their own over time. As your brain learns to ignore them, you may not even notice them anymore. However, if you experience a sudden increase in the number of floaters, flashes of light, or a loss of peripheral vision, you should seek medical attention immediately as these could be signs of a more serious condition.
What Can You Do About Eye Floaters?
If your eye floaters are bothering you, there are a few things you can do to help reduce their appearance:
- Avoid looking at bright backgrounds, such as the sky or a computer screen.
- Move your eyes up and down, or side to side, to try and move the floaters out of your line of vision.
- Try using artificial tears to help lubricate your eyes and reduce irritation.
- Consider undergoing vitrectomy surgery, which involves removing the vitreous and replacing it with a saline solution. However, this is a risky procedure that should only be considered in severe cases.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you experience any sudden changes in your vision or an increase in the number of eye floaters, you should see a doctor immediately. These could be signs of a more serious condition, such as retinal detachment or a tear in the retina. Your doctor will be able to perform a thorough exam and determine the cause of your symptoms.
Conclusion
Eye floaters are usually harmless and will go away on their own over time. However, if you experience any sudden changes in your vision or an increase in the number of floaters, you should seek medical attention immediately. There are a few things you can do to help reduce the appearance of eye floaters, but in severe cases, vitrectomy surgery may be necessary. The most important thing is to stay vigilant about your eye health and seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms.