Floaters

Most people have eye floaters occasionally, but if your symptoms continue for more than a few days, it’s important to identify the cause. At Retina Consultants of Muncie in Muncie, Indiana, vitreoretinal ophthalmologist Jeffrey Rapkin, MD, offers complete care for floaters and flashers. Dr. Rapkin can pinpoint the source of your symptoms and make personalized treatment recommendations. Call Retina Consultants of Muncie today to receive treatment for floaters, or book your appointment online.

What causes eye floaters?

Eye floaters are spots that appear in your field of vision. They can look like strings, cobwebs, or orbs. 

Often, floaters are caused by age-related changes to your vitreous (the jelly-like substance inside your eyes). Over the years, your vitreous begins to liquefy and clump together. These scattered clumps of collagen fibers cast shadows on your retina, resulting in floaters.

If you experience a sudden increase in floaters, contact Retina Consultants of Muncie, as it may indicate a potentially serious issue. Early intervention and treatment can preserve your vision and prevent further damage.

What are the symptoms of floaters?

 Symptoms of eye floaters include:

• Shapes or strings that appear in your field of vision
• Spots that are especially noticeable when looking at a light background
• Spots or shapes that move when you move your eyes
• Specks or strings of transparent floating material in your vision

Most people experience eye floaters throughout their lives. They’re a natural side effect of getting older. 

How are eye floaters diagnosed?

Dr. Rapkin reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a comprehensive eye exam. He also dilates your pupils so he can get a better look at the back of your eye, including your retina and the vitreous. 

How are eye floaters treated?

Most cases of eye floaters are mild and resolve on their own without treatment. But if you have an underlying medical issue, like diabetic eye disease or a detached retina causing your floaters, intervention is necessary to prevent vision loss. Dr. Rapkin may recommend:

Surgery to remove the vitreous (vitrectomy)

During a vitrectomy, Dr. Rapkin removes the damaged vitreous in your eye and replaces it with a solution that helps your eye maintain its shape. A vitrectomy won’t necessarily prevent floaters entirely but can significantly improve your vision.

Laser treatment to disrupt the floaters (vitreolysis)

During vitreolysis, Dr. Rapkin uses targeted laser energy to break up clumps of the vitreous at the back of your eye. That makes floaters less noticeable, improving your vision.

Both treatments are outpatient and present few risks.

Call Retina Consultants of Muncie today to learn more about the treatment of eye floaters, or book your appointment online.