by C. Lyn Walter

Created on: August 31, 2009

Floaters and spots in the eye are a visual perception often described as small, dark shapes that seem to look like cobwebs, specks, squiggly lines or thread like strands. They appear to move as the eye moves then dart away, and are most obvious when gazing at a clear sky, blank wall or any light background.

When one first becomes aware of floaters, it may seem worrisome or at the very least, distracting and annoying. This condition is more common to those over the age of sixty but there are some medical conditions that may contribute to them as well such as Diabetes, hemorrhage, retinal tears, and physical injuries. The aging process is often responsible for the condition due to the gel-like substance called the Vitreous, which fills about 80 percent of the eye giving it a round form. As we age, the vitreous shrinks causing tiny shadows which our sight interprets as floaters. Floaters may develop almost imperceptibly but if there is a sudden sensation of floaters or flashing lights, one should seek medical attention from an Ophthalmologist to rule out other more serious eye conditions such as retinal detachment, which is considered an emergency condition.

Eye health is often overlooked until a problem develops. Those who have more frequent eye exams for the purposes of refraction or contact lens prescriptions will be referred to Ophthalmologists when abnormalities are discovered during routine examination. The sudden, rather than gradual onset of the perception of floaters and flashing lights should be followed up immediately with a call to the Ophthalmologist's office. If an eye exam is ordered the eyes will be treated with drops to cause dilation but it is not a painful or uncomfortable experience. When the risk for a serious eye condition is ruled out the patient is free to return home but the eyes may remain dilated for some time, depending on the color of the eye and other contributing factors. Sensitivity to light will be relieved by wearing dark glasses until normal vision is restored.

In conclusion, floaters are usually a perception caused by aging and the gradual shrinking of vitreous fluid in the eye. It is experienced more often in those over the age of sixty or in some cases by people who are very near sighted, have Diabetes or in some cases, by those who have had cataract surgeries. The sudden onset of floaters or flashes of light can be a sign of a more serious condition so it is important to be evaluated by an Ophthalmologist who specializes in diseases of the eye. Floaters can be annoying and even frightening when they are first observed, but if due to the normal aging of the eye, patients will become accustomed to them and eventually may not notice them as often, if at all.

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