Seeing Things? What Eye Floaters Are

Eye floaters, or eye floaties are those weird little wormy things that float across your vision when you look at something. Some people—especially younger people—get the wrong impression and think that they actually are worms, living on the eye. While there are microorganisms that inhabit our bodies, we can assure you that floaters are not, in fact, living creatures. It’s a good idea to learn more about eye floaters from a professional like your eye doctor in Weston, FL, instead of from the rumor mill.

What Are Eye Floaters?

You probably already know what is meant by eye floaters, since almost everyone has seen them. They’re the shadowy shapes that appear to float or drift through your field of vision. They’re particularly noticeable when you look at something bright, like a bright, blue sky or a white computer screen. If you don’t pay heed to them, they kind of disappear from view. But if you try focusing on one it will be there one minute and one the next. They move as your eyes move, seeming to dart away when you try to look at them directly.

Why Do Floaters Occur?

Floaters are actually tiny bits of the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills about 80% of the eye and helps maintain its round shape. With age, the vitreous slowly shrinks and becomes somewhat stringy. These strands can cast shadows on the retina—the light-sensitive part of the eye where images are formed. It’s these shadows that we perceive as floaters.

Are Floaters Normal?

For the most part, seeing a few floaters from time to time is completely normal, especially as you get older. They are a common part of the eye’s aging process and, in most cases, aren’t a cause for concern.

Keeping up with regular eye exams ensures that any changes in your vision, including seeing more floaters than usual, can be evaluated by your eye doctor. While there’s no specific treatment for mild floaters, they often become less bothersome over time. Most people adapt to them and notice them less. However, if floaters significantly interfere with your vision, book an appointment with your eye doctor in order to get an eye exam in Weston, FL.