When it comes to eye disorders, floaters are some of the least worrisome since they do not typically cause long-term issues. They occasionally signify a more serious problem that could end in blindness, but in such cases, they are merely a symptom, not the main issue. Once you find out some facts about floaters, you will likely see why they are considered so harmless.
Why Are Floaters Not Considered Serious?
Since only adults tend to have eye floaters, they are now considered a normal part of aging. It makes sense that as the eye ages, the gel between the lens and the retina, called the vitreous humor, tends to break down a bit. The result is several tiny strands or spots that seem to float around in the eye, moving as the eye moves so that you can never seem to get a good look at them.
For most people, they show up randomly and are not always visible. In fact, many people do not even notice them until they increase in number, or they look at bright objects. It is probably for this reason that when most people think of serious eye disorders, floaters do not come to mind, as they are not painful and can usually be ignored.
Who Gets Eye Floaters?
This issue usually begins when young adulthood is reached, as the vitreous humor in children and teenagers is still rather new and in particularly good shape. This means that as you get older, you have a higher chance of developing eye floaters. The following are also most at-risk for floaters:
- Those who are nearsighted
- People who have had an operation to get rid of cataracts
- Those with diabetes
- People with a history of severe eye injuries or infections
If you fall into any of these categories and are worried about eye disorders, floaters may be a concern for you. It may be prudent to see an eye doctor soon if you are truly worried. However, you will likely find that even if you develop floaters, you will not feel any pain or discomfort from them, and in fact will probably just get used to them.