West Broward Eyecare Associates
Optometry located in Tamarac, FL
Floaters can interfere with clear vision and may be a sign of a serious condition that needs immediate attention. At West Broward Eyecare Associates in Tamarac, Florida, the expert doctors evaluate vision changes associated with floaters and provide treatment to clear up your vision. If you’re experiencing floaters, call the office for an assessment or schedule online.
Floaters Q & A
Clumps of cells, a gel matrix, or pigment can float inside the central cavity of your eye. They look like clouds or specks that move in and out of your vision. Sometimes they resemble a swarm of insects. You may also describe floaters as:
- Black or gray dots
- Squiggly lines
- Rings
- Threadlike strands, which can be knobby and almost see-through
- Cobwebs
Floaters are usually most evident when you look at a white background. True to their name, they really do “float” and move when you attempt to focus on them.
What causes floaters?
Often, floaters aren’t a serious concern, especially if you have just a few and have had them for some time. If you experience a sudden surge of new floaters, it could be an indication that you have:
- A new retinal tear
- Vitreous hemorrhage
- Posterior vitreous detachment
- Inflammation of the eye
If you’re concerned about floaters, call West Broward Eyecare Associates for an evaluation.
How are floaters treated?
Benign floaters don’t usually require treatment. Even if they were caused by a posterior vitreous detachment without a retinal tear, the floaters typically “settle” out of the line of vision over several weeks to months.
If you have severe floaters caused by a vitreous hemorrhage that don’t clear after several months, and eventually prevent you from seeing, the doctors can remove them surgically by pars plana vitrectomy.
Are floaters different than flashes?
Flashes are a separate condition that sometimes occurs in conjunction with new floaters. They are brief sensations that appear to be bright lights, sometimes taking the shape of lightning bolts.
When occurring together with floaters, they may indicate a posterior vitreous detachment, retinal detachment, or retinal tear. If you experience flashes, with or without floaters, report them to the experts at West Broward Eyecare Associates.
Patients sometimes confuse flashes and floaters with the aura that can occur in conjunction with a migraine headache. A migraine aura usually lasts for just a few minutes and then resolves. Floaters and flashers may persist.
If you’re experiencing floaters or flashes, consult West Broward Eyecare Associates immediately. Call the office or schedule an appointment online.
