There are many different types of vision problems and diseases that can develop in the eyes. Some problems we are born with, some will develop over time, and others appear suddenly. One type of eye problem that can develop are floaters. Floater are harmless and can often be corrected. However, those with floaters will need to be identified to begin treatment. Eyewear Candy Optical RX will share more about what floaters are and how eye exams can help identify and treat this type of eye problem.

What Are Eye Floaters & Their Symptoms?

Floaters are small, dark, shadowy shapes that appear to float within a person’s field of vision. Floaters are usually caused by small clumps of protein or other materials in the vitreous, which is the gel-like substance that fills the eye. Floaters are usually harmless and often occur as the eye ages. However, floaters can sometimes be a sign of a more serious eye condition. Some of the common signs of floaters occur if you are seeing:
• Small, dark, speck-like shapes that appear to be floating in your vision.
• Cobweb-like strands or clusters of floaters that move at the same time your eye moves.
• Flashes of lights that you notice in your peripheral vision.
• There is a sudden increase in the number or size of floaters.
• Or you feel like there is something in your eye that you can’t remove.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms of floaters, it is important to see an eye doctor. You should get a comprehensive eye exam to rule out any underlying eye conditions. In some rare cases, floaters can be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment, which requires immediate medical attention to prevent vision loss.

Can Floaters Be Seen in an Eye Exam?

An eye doctor can help detect floaters during a comprehensive eye exam. During the exam, the doctor will use various instruments to examine the different structures of the eye, including the vitreous, retina, and optic nerve. To detect floaters, your eye doctor will perform these basic tests and examinations:
• Visual Acuity Test: This test measures how well you can see letters on an eye chart. This helps the doctor determine if you have any vision problems that may be causing floaters.
• Dilated Eye Exam: During this exam, the doctor will use eye drops to dilate your pupils, this allows the eye doctor to get a good view of the inside of your eye. Using a special instrument called an ophthalmoscope, the doctor can check the vitreous, retina, and optic nerve for any signs of floaters, tears, or other problems.
• Ultrasound: In some cases, the doctor may use ultrasound imaging to get a more detailed view of the inside of the eye, particularly if they suspect floaters that may have been caused by bleeding or inflammation.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This is a test that uses light waves to create high-resolution images of the retina and other structures of the eye. It can help the doctor detect any causes of floaters.

Eye Exams, Eyeglasses, Sunglasses & More in Delray Beach, FL (Just Minutes Away from Boca Raton, Highland Beach, Kings Point, Golf & Boynton Beach, Florida)

For those with eye floaters, a comprehensive eye exam can help detect floaters. If treatment is needed, Eyewear Candy Optical RX can develop a treatment plan. For eye exams and more, contact Eyewear Candy Optical RX today.