Why Do I See Floating Objects Through My Field of Vision?

Do you ever notice floating objects in your field of vision? These objects are known as floaters. While seeing these can cause anxiety and stress, floaters are usually harmless. However, floaters can indicate underlying eye and vision issues that require attention. Harrington Vision in Florence, SC, is here to tell you about floaters, what causes them, and when you should see an optometrist for eye care.

What Are Floaters?

Floaters are minuscule clumps of gel or cells floating around the vitreous humor. This jelly-like substance that fills the inside of your eye can liquify and cause clumps to form over time. These clumps cast shadows on the retina when light passes through the vitreous. These shadows are what you see as floaters in your vision.

What Causes Floaters?

Eye floaters become increasingly common as we age. When we age, the vitreous humor naturally becomes more liquified. You can also experience floaters due to eye injuries or conditions. Trauma to the eyes often causes floaters to appear. Some eye diseases, such as retinal detachment and diabetic retinopathy, can make floaters appear in your vision. Pregnant women may also experience floaters due to changes in hormones and higher blood volume.

When Should I See an Optometrist?

While most cases of floaters are harmless, sometimes floaters can indicate more significant eye and vision issues. Accompanying symptoms like noticing flashes of light, abrupt changes in vision, and experiencing a curtain-like shadow sweep across your field of vision can signal severe conditions.

You should visit your optometrist and schedule a comprehensive eye exam to determine the underlying cause of your increased floaters. They can provide prompt eye care to tackle the root of your eye and vision issue and help you see more vividly and comfortably again. Treatment may include eye exercises to help eliminate floaters from your field of vision or medications. Surgery may be necessary if floaters significantly impact your vision.

Protect Your Eyesight With Reliable Eye Care From Harrington Vision

Floaters can indicate several eye and vision issues that require prompt eye care to prevent future complications, so contact Harrington Vision in Florence, SC, to schedule an eye exam today. We can determine the cause of your floaters and help restore your vision, so call us at our West Florence office at (843) 669-2020 or our Downtown office at (843) 662-0691 to schedule an appointment with our optometrist.