What to do when floaters increase?
Floaters are a symptom that, although common, can cause a lot of anxiety. These small spots or filaments that float in the field of vision are often harmless, but in some cases they can indicate more serious problems that require immediate medical attention.
Welcome to the Retina and Vitreous Channel, the most comprehensive space on YouTube about retinal health. Today, we're going to talk about a topic that worries many people: the increase in floaters. If you know someone who often complains about these “little flies” in their vision, share this article with them. This information can be crucial for eye health.
#### What are floaters?
Floaters are small shadows that move across the field of vision, especially in well-lit environments. They are caused by small particles or fibers within the vitreous, the jelly-like substance that fills the inside of the eye. Over the years, the vitreous begins to detach from the retina, a natural process known as vitreous detachment.
#### When Floaters Increase
A sudden increase in floaters can be a warning sign. This can occur when the vitreous detaches from the retina and pulls on the retinal membrane at some point, creating a tear. This tear can, in turn, lead to a detached retina, a serious condition that can result in permanent loss of vision if not treated quickly.
In addition, other eye diseases, such as ocular toxoplasmosis, can also cause an increase in floaters. Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the toxoplasma parasite, which can enter the body through contaminated water or undercooked meat and affect the retina. In this case, in addition to floaters, the person may notice a blurriness or cloudiness in their vision.
#### What to do when floaters increase?
If you notice a sudden increase in the number of floaters, or if they suddenly appear for no apparent reason, it is essential to seek immediate eye care. A retina specialist should carry out detailed examinations such as retinal mapping, an Ultra Wide Field retinography or an ocular ultrasound to assess the situation.
In cases of vitreous detachment without retinal lesions, the doctor may only recommend regular follow-up to monitor the evolution of the retina. However, if a retinal rupture or retinal degeneration is detected, such as lattice or snail track, laser photocoagulation may be necessary to prevent retinal detachment. The laser creates small scars on the retina, which help to “weld” the affected area, significantly reducing the risk of detachment.
#### Importance of follow-up
Even if the initial examination does not reveal any serious problems, it is essential to continue monitoring eye health. Studies show that complications can arise up to a year after the onset of floaters, especially in cases of vitreous detachment. Therefore, keeping regular appointments with the ophthalmologist is crucial to ensure that any changes to the retina are detected and treated in time.
#### Other causes of floaters
Increased floaters are not always related to a retinal or vitreous detachment. In younger patients, especially those with myopia, the vitreous can undergo a natural degeneration, losing some of its transparency and forming fibrils that appear as floaters. Although this condition is generally harmless, it requires monitoring to ensure that it doesn't develop into more serious problems.
#### Conclusion
Floaters are a common symptom, but one that should be taken seriously, especially if there is a sudden or unexpected increase. Seeing an ophthalmologist specializing in retina is the first step to ensuring eye health and preventing serious complications. If you notice any changes in your field of vision, don't hesitate to seek professional help. And remember: prevention and early diagnosis are essential to maintaining healthy vision.
This video and its comments are not a substitute for a doctor's consultation and are for educational purposes only. They should not be used to make decisions, for which a face-to-face consultation with a specialist doctor is necessary.
Author:
Dr. Mário César Bulla
Cremers 28120
Ophthalmologist - Retina Specialist
www.clinicabulla.com.br
www.especialistaemretina.com.br
Instagram: @retina.bulla
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0:00 The floaters have increased: what to do?
1:40 What is vitreous detachment?
2:20 The danger of floaters.
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