What Is A “Floater?”
Eye floaters are essentially, spots that can develop within one’s field of vision. These spots may look like specks, strings, or other shapes that may appear black or gray. They will often “float” along with the eyesight—if a patient looks to the right, their floaters will drift to the right as well. Eye floaters are actually caused by fibers that can clump within the vitreous, or gel-like substance, of the eye. These fibers then cast shadows on the retina, which causes the black and gray eye floaters to develop.
Are Floaters A Sign Of A Serious Medical Condition?
In most situations, eye floaters are just a nuisance to patients and may go away on their own. They often occur due to the normal signs of aging. However, there are times when patients should be concerned and seek immediate medical treatment for their eye floaters. For example, patients who notice floaters for the first time, or notice more floaters than usual, may want to have their eyes evaluated by a professional. Additionally, patients who notice floaters in conjunction with vision loss, blurred vision, or the appearance of flashes of light within their eyes will want to seek medical attention, as these may be signs of more serious conditions such as retinal detachment. This is when the retina pulls away from the tissues in the eye. This can result in vision changes and even permanent vision loss if not diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
How Are Floaters Treated?
At Southside Eye Care, we are pleased to provide laser floater treatment. This treatment is achieved with the use of laser light, targeted at the floaters in the vitreous. The laser will break down the floaters and make them far less noticeable. This, in turn, can improve a patient’s vision and reduce or eliminate the floaters that may have been bothersome to the individual.
Discuss Your Options With The Team Of Southside Eye Care
If you reside in the area of Chesapeake, VA and want to speak to professionals about laser floater treatment, call Drs. Michael Keverline, Theodore Hallberg, and Elizabeth Chiang today to request an appointment. The practice is conveniently located at 3206 Churchland Boulevard and is reachable at (757) 484-0101.
