When Eye Floaters May Be a Medical Emergency

Eye floaters are tiny specks or strings that float into your field of vision. They may appear as black or grey dots, lines, cobwebs, or blobs. While they may seem to be in front of your eye, they are actually floating in the vitreous, the gel-like fluid filling the back of your eye. Eye floaters are common and often harmless, but it's crucial to understand what they are, why they occur, and when they might signify a problem. Knowledge is power, and learning about this common visual phenomenon will help you to keep your eyes healthy and your vision sharp.

Common Causes of Eye Floaters

A variety of things can cause eye floaters. The most common cause is age-related changes in the eye. As we get older, the vitreous jelly in our eyes can start to thicken or shrink, forming clumps or strands. When light enters your eye, these clumps can cast a shadow on your retina, resulting in eye floaters.

Another common cause of eye floaters is posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). This is a natural part of the aging process where the vitreous jelly, which fills the inside of your eye, shrinks and pulls away from the retina. This can cause a sudden increase in eye floaters.

Other causes of eye floaters can include eye diseases or injury, diabetic retinopathy, inflammation in the eye, or certain types of eye surgery. A retinal detachment, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention, can occasionally be the cause of eye floaters.

 

Eye Floaters as a Potential Sign of a Medical Emergency

While most eye floaters are harmless and merely an annoyance, they can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious condition. A retinal detachment may be present if you notice a sudden increase in eye floaters, or if your floaters come with flashes of light or a loss of peripheral vision.

A retinal detachment is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. This occurs when the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of your eye, becomes detached from its normal position. If left untreated, a retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

 

The Importance of a Medical Eye Exam

Regular medical eye exams are crucial for maintaining good eye health. At Lookout Eyecare, we offer comprehensive eye exams that can help to detect any issues with your eyes, including the presence of eye floaters.

During an eye exam, our experienced optometrists will carefully examine your eyes, checking for any signs of eye diseases or conditions. If you have been experiencing issues with eye floaters, we will pay special attention to this during your exam.

It's recommended to have a medical eye exam at least once every two years, or more frequently if you have a history of eye conditions or are experiencing symptoms. These exams can help to catch any potential issues early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

 

How Lookout Eyecare Can Help

At Lookout Eyecare, we are dedicated to providing exceptional eye care services. Our team of experienced optometrists can help to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions, including eye floaters.

If treatment is required, we will discuss your options with you and work together to develop a treatment plan that best suits your needs.

 

Taking Care of Your Vision and Eye Health

While eye floaters can be annoying, they are often harmless. However, a sudden increase in floaters, the appearance of flashes of light, or the loss of peripheral vision could be signs of a medical emergency and should not be ignored. Regular eye exams at Lookout Eyecare can help to detect any potential issues early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

If you have been experiencing issues with eye floaters, schedule an appointment with our professionals at Lookout Eyecare in our San Antonio, Texas office. Your vision is our top priority. Please call (210) 236-7273 to book an appointment today.