Floaters refer to a visual problem in which people see specks floating in front of their eyes. The University of Maryland Medical Center says these floaters actually look like spots and in some instances, they may actually appear to look like threads. Sometimes these floaters can be a sign of a more serious visual problem. Causes of floaters can be managed.
Cataracts
Cataracts refer to a clouding of the eye lenses. The University of Maryland Medical Center says symptoms of cataracts include floaters, clouding, foggy or a filmy vision to the eye and trouble seeing at night. Cataracts can also lead to problems seeing shapes, double vision and a decrease in a color's intensity. Cataracts can also lead to frequent changing of eye prescriptions.
Cataracts can be present at birth, or they can develop as people age. Risk factors for developing cataracts involve smoking, radiation exposure, eye injuries, family history and excessive exposure to ultraviolet light.
Treating cataracts involves having them surgically removed. Sometimes changing glasses, getting a new prescription or getting bifocals can be beneficial in managing cataracts.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration refers to a medical problem in which the center part of the retina (located in the back portion of the eye) becomes damaged. Symptoms of macular degeneration include floaters, dry eyes, blurry vision and problems reading fine print. MedlinePlus says macular degeneration can also cause loss of vision in the center part of the eye.
Damage to the blood vessels that supply the retina causes macular degeneration. Risk factors for developing this eye condition include being Caucasian, being obese, being female and a high-fat diet. Other risk factors for macular degeneration include smoking cigarettes.
Unfortunately, there is no exact treatment for macular degeneration. Rather, the progression of this disease can be slowed. Supplements such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, zinc and copper can help manage this disease. Sometimes, laser surgery, photodynamic therapy and medications such as bevacizumab and ranibuzumab can be taken to help manage macular degeneration.
Retinal Detachment
The University of Maryland Medical Center says retinal detachment literally refers to a split or separation that occurs between the thin layers of tissue (retina) located in the back of the eye. Symptoms of retinal detachment include floaters, blurry vision, bright flashes of light and blindness in one portion of the eye.
The UMMC says retinal detachment typically occurs spontaneously, without an exact cause. Risk factors include nearsightedness (far objects seem blurry), trauma, uncontrolled diabetes and having a family history of retinal detachment. Treating retinal detachment involves having surgery to repair it.
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