You should worry about eye floaters when they are accompanied by specific symptoms or changes.
Understanding Eye Floaters
Eye floaters are small spots that drift across your vision. They are usually harmless, often caused by age-related changes in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills your eye. However, certain symptoms associated with floaters can indicate a more serious issue requiring prompt medical attention.
When Floaters Become a Concern
While most floaters are not dangerous, you should seek immediate evaluation from an ophthalmologist or retina specialist if you experience any of the following:
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters: If you suddenly notice a significant rise in the number of floaters, this could be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment.
- Shadow blocking part of your visual field: A dark area or a shadow obstructing your vision along with floaters could indicate a serious problem with the retina.
- Eye pain or redness: Pain or redness in the eye, accompanied by floaters, may point to an underlying inflammatory or infectious issue.
- Blurry vision along with floaters: If your vision becomes blurry when you also see new floaters, this can indicate a problem needing prompt medical attention.
Why These Symptoms are Concerning
These specific symptoms, when occurring with floaters, can suggest underlying conditions that can potentially threaten your vision, such as:
- Retinal tear or detachment: A sudden increase in floaters, especially when coupled with flashes of light, can be a sign of retinal tearing or detachment, which requires immediate medical intervention to prevent vision loss.
- Vitreous hemorrhage: Bleeding in the vitreous humor can cause floaters and can be associated with retinal problems or other eye diseases.
- Uveitis: This is inflammation of the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye, and can cause floaters, eye pain, redness and blurry vision.
- Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD): This is a common condition in older individuals where the vitreous pulls away from the retina. It can cause a sudden increase in floaters, and sometimes cause retinal tears.
Practical Advice
- Regular Eye Exams: Have regular comprehensive eye exams, especially if you are over 50, or have risk factors for retinal diseases.
- Be Observant: Keep an eye on the changes in your vision and take note of any new floaters, flashes of light, or vision disturbances.
- Act Promptly: If you experience concerning symptoms with your floaters, seek immediate professional help.
When to See a Doctor?
It is crucial to consult an ophthalmologist or retina specialist promptly if you experience any of the warning signs mentioned above, in order to receive a thorough evaluation and timely treatment, if needed.
