Have you ever noticed little specks, strings, or even cobweb shapes drifting across your vision? These are called floaters, and while they’re usually harmless, our team at the Optometric Group of Fontana, Upland Downtown and Rancho Cucamonga understands how distracting they can be. Almost everyone experiences floaters at some point.
You might wonder if your dry, itchy eyes are to blame. While dry eyes don’t directly cause floaters, the irritation caused by dry eye can make you more aware of the floaters you already have. Let’s explore what’s really going on with those little squiggles in your vision.
What Exactly Are Those Squiggly Things in Your Vision?
Floaters have a simple explanation. They’re tiny shadows cast on your retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. Understanding what they look like and where they come from can help you feel more at ease.
A Peek at Different Kinds of Floaters
Floaters can appear in many different shapes and sizes. You might see:
- Black or gray dots
- Squiggly lines
- Thread-like strands
- Cobwebs
- Rings
The Usual Story of Eye Floaters
Most of the time, floaters are small clumps in the vitreous, the clear, gel-like substance that fills your eyeball. As you get older, this gel naturally becomes more liquid, causing it to contract. This may cause collagen fibers to collect inside the vitreous, casting shadows on your eyes.
The Connection Between Dry Eyes & Floaters
So, if dry eyes don’t create floaters, why do you seem to notice them more when your eyes feel gritty or irritated? It’s actually a matter of perception rather than creation.
How Dryness Makes You Notice Floaters More
When your eyes are uncomfortable, you pay more attention to your vision. This heightened awareness means you’re more likely to notice every little speck and line that you might have otherwise ignored.
Does Dehydration Play a Role?
Your eyes depend on proper hydration to function. When your body is low on water, the vitreous gel inside your eye can be affected. This change might make existing floaters seem more obvious or pronounced.
What Else Can Prompt Eye Floaters?
While aging is the most frequent reason for floaters, a few other factors can also cause them. Knowing what else might be at play gives you a fuller picture of your eye health.
- Age: The vitreous gel in your eye changes composition over the years.
- Eye Inflammation: Swelling from inside the eye can release small particles into the vitreous.
- Eye Injury: A bump or trauma to the eye can cause changes that lead to floaters and may require prompt medical attention.
- Nearsightedness: If you are very nearsighted, you may experience floaters earlier in life.
How to Manage Pesky Floaters & Dry Eye Symptoms
You can’t just wish floaters away, but you can take steps to manage the dry eye symptoms that make them more noticeable. When your vision is comfortable, you’re less likely to be distracted by squiggles in your vision.
Do Dry Eye Drops Help with Floaters?
Lubricating eye drops are designed to soothe the surface of your eye—they don’t have any effect on the floaters themselves. However, by relieving the scratchy feeling of dry eye, eye drops can help you tune out floaters and focus on your day.
Simple Tips for Comfortable Eyes
A few easy habits can go a long way in keeping your eyes comfortable:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Give your eyes regular breaks from digital screens.
- Use a humidifier to add a little moisture to the air at home or work.
When to Chat with Your Eye Doctor
Most floaters are a normal part of life, but in some cases, they can point to underlying problems that need a closer look. A professional opinion can give you clarity and peace of mind about your vision.
Signs You Should Schedule a Visit
It’s a good idea to contact an eye care professional if you notice any of these signs:
- A sudden, dramatic increase in the number of floaters
- Flashes of light appearing with the floaters
- A dark shadow or curtain that seems to cover part of your side vision, which can be a sign of a detached retina
- Any sudden decrease in your vision
Your Friendly Eye Doctor in Rancho Cucamonga & Beyond
A comprehensive eye exam is a great way to understand your vision concerns. As your eye doctor in Fontana, we can evaluate your eyes and explain what’s happening. Whether you live in Rancho Cucamonga or Upland, regular check-ups help support your long-term eye health.
Our team at Optometric Group of Fontana, Upland and Rancho Cucamonga is here to provide personalized care for your whole family. If you’re concerned about floaters, dry eyes, or anything else, schedule a visit for a thorough and friendly eye exam.