When to See an Ophthalmologist About Eye Floaters

Eye floaters appear as tiny specks, squiggly lines, or cobwebs drifting across your vision. They form when small particles or cells float in the vitreous, the gel-like substance filling your eye. As you age, the vitreous becomes more liquid, allowing these particles to move freely. When they shift, they cast shadows on your retina, making them more noticeable. 

While floaters are usually harmless, certain changes may indicate a more serious issue. The experienced team at Negrey Eye Associates in Havertown, Pennsylvania, can help you determine if you need treatment for eye floaters.

When should you be concerned about floaters?

Most floaters are a natural part of aging, but sudden changes warrant attention. Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

• A sudden increase in the number of floaters
• Flashes of light in your vision
• A shadow or curtain effect over part of your vision
• Loss of peripheral vision

These symptoms could indicate retinal tears or detachment, which require prompt treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. Other serious conditions, such as bleeding in the eye (vitreous hemorrhage) or severe inflammation, may also cause new floaters and need urgent evaluation. 

If you have risk factors such as diabetes, extreme nearsightedness, or a history of eye trauma, it’s especially important to be vigilant about changes in your vision and visit our office whenever you notice those changes.

Can you prevent eye floaters?

While you can’t always prevent floaters, maintaining good eye health may reduce their impact. Protect your eyes from UV exposure by wearing sunglasses outdoors, and minimize digital eye strain by following the 20-20-20 rule — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. 

A diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin C can support eye health and reduce the risk of conditions like diabetic retinopathy. Staying hydrated also helps maintain the consistency of the vitreous gel. Regular eye exams remain the best way to catch potential issues early and protect your vision.

Common causes of eye floaters

While aging is the most common cause of floaters, other factors can contribute.

• Eye injuries, trauma, or procedures like cataract surgery
• Diabetic retinopathy, where high blood sugar levels can damage retinal blood vessels
• Eye inflammation (uveitis) 

Certain individuals are at higher risk of developing floaters, including those who are highly nearsighted, have undergone previous eye surgery, or have chronic conditions like diabetes. Regular eye exams can help detect potential issues before they become serious.

What to do if you notice changes

If you notice any changes in your floaters, especially a sudden increase or the appearance of other symptoms, it’s essential to contact us. A comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated retinal exam, will help determine whether your floaters are simply a result of aging or if there’s a more serious issue at hand. 

We assess your eye health and may perform additional tests to check for conditions like retinal tears, detachment, or diabetic retinopathy.

Even if your floaters don’t immediately interfere with your vision, staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy diet, and managing conditions like diabetes can support overall eye health. While lifestyle changes won’t eliminate floaters, they can reduce eye strain and promote long-term wellness.

Treatment options for floaters

In most cases, floaters don’t require treatment and become less noticeable over time. However, if they significantly affect your vision, treatment options include:

• Vitrectomy: surgical removal of the vitreous gel and floaters
• Laser therapy: breaking up large floaters into smaller, less noticeable fragments

Floater treatments are reserved for more severe cases. The team at Negrey Eye Associates determines the best action based on your unique situation. 

Don’t ignore sudden vision changes

If you experience new or worsening floaters, flashes of light, or any signs of vision loss, don’t wait — seek medical attention as soon as possible. Retinal conditions can progress quickly, and early diagnosis is key to preventing serious complications. Call our office, or schedule your appointment online today. We’re here to help you maintain your eye health.