These phenomena are most often due to changes and degeneration of the internal gel-like structure that fills the eye – vitreous floaters. Although this condition is often harmless, it requires a professional evaluation by an experienced ophthalmologist to rule out more serious causes.
Symptoms
- Moving shadows or cobwebs in the visual field, more noticeable against a bright background (sky or a white wall).
- They move with your eye movements.
Risk Factors
As we age, the vitreous undergoes changes. Its structure can liquefy, and the collagen fibers within it may clump together, forming small “clumps” or strands. These opacities cast shadows on the retina, which we perceive as floating elements.
Other causes for the appearance of floaters may include vitreous hemorrhage, vitreous detachment from the retina, inflammation of the internal structures of the eye (uveitis), or in very rare cases, they can be a symptom of an eye tumor. Therefore, it is important for an ophthalmologist to perform a comprehensive eye examination.
Diagnosis
- Ophthalmological examination with pupil dilation
- Ophthalmoscopy – to evaluate the vitreous and retina
- Eye scanner – OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) – if concomitant diseases are suspected
- Biomicroscopy – to examine the front and back of the eye, including the vitreous
- All specialists at VISION Clinic perform diagnosis.
Treatment
In most cases, vitreous floaters are harmless and do not require active treatment. Over time, the brain often adapts and begins to ignore them. If floaters significantly impair your vision and interfere with your daily activities, the following options may be discussed:
- Vitreolysis (laser floater removal): VISION Clinic is one of the few clinics in our country that possesses the most modern specialized laser for this non-invasive treatment method.
- Vitrectomy: Microsurgical removal of the vitreous in severe cases.
- Treatment of underlying diseases: (inflammations or hemorrhages).
Prevention
Regular eye exams are important for the early detection and monitoring of the condition of the vitreous and retina.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most floaters are harmless, but a sudden appearance of many new floaters or flashes of light requires an urgent consultation.
Often, yes. In some cases, however, they remain but become less noticeable over time as the brain learns to ignore them.
Laser vitreolysis is painless, and when surgical intervention is required, it is performed under anesthesia.
Equipment
Solix (OCT)
Optical coherence tomography allows for fast and precise non-invasive imaging of the retina, optic nerve, and cornea.
