Floaters (비문증): Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Hello. This time, we're going to learn about floaters. Floaters are a phenomenon experienced by many people, but often, the exact cause, symptoms, and management methods are not well understood. I've also experienced floaters myself, so I wanted to learn more about them. Let's learn together!

Floaters Overview

Floaters are a type of dry eye, a condition that involves various eye-related symptoms. It can primarily be caused by eye conditions such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, and macular degeneration. In this article, we will explore the causes, main symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment methods, preventive measures, lifestyle guidelines for patients, and common misconceptions and truths about floaters.

Causes of Floaters

Floaters can be caused by various factors. The most common cause is glaucoma, which occurs when the fluid within the eye cannot drain properly, leading to increased eye pressure and subsequent dryness. Glaucoma can be caused by genetic factors, aging, and stress.

Other eye conditions such as retinal detachment or macular degeneration can also induce floaters. Retinal detachment is a condition where a part of the retina detaches, potentially compromising the stability of the eye. Macular degeneration is a condition affecting the macula, the central part of the retina, and can lead to vision impairment. Additionally, allergies, environmental factors causing glare, and prolonged eye usage can also contribute to floaters.

Main Symptoms of Floaters

Floaters can be accompanied by various symptoms. The primary symptoms include dry eyes, a feeling of eye fatigue and heaviness, decreased vision, and eye irritation. These symptoms can disrupt daily life and can worsen due to factors such as prolonged eye use, or prolonged viewing of mobile phone or computer screens.

Diagnostic Methods for Floaters

The most common method for diagnosing floaters is through consultation with an ophthalmologist. The doctor will listen to the symptoms, measure the dryness of the eyes, and may perform tests such as retinal and macular examinations, intraocular pressure measurements, and tear production measurements to assess the condition of the eye. During the consultation, it is important to provide a detailed explanation of the symptoms and medical history for accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Methods for Floaters

Treatment methods for floaters can vary depending on the underlying cause. In most cases, improving eye dryness and protecting the eyes are crucial. Following the ophthalmologist's prescription, using artificial tears or eye protectants and keeping the eye area warm can be beneficial. If glaucoma is the cause, glaucoma treatment may need to be administered concurrently. Minimizing factors that trigger dry eyes is also essential. Avoid prolonged eye use, take appropriate breaks, and allow the eyes to rest. Maintaining indoor humidity and ensuring proper ventilation can also be helpful.

Prevention of Floaters

Maintaining eye health is crucial for preventing floaters. Getting enough sleep every day and consuming a nutritious diet can contribute to eye health. It's also important to avoid prolonged exposure to screens like mobile phones and computers. After prolonged eye use, blink frequently and allow the eyes to rest, and maintaining indoor humidity can also be beneficial.

Lifestyle Guidelines for Floaters Patients

Patients with floaters should follow certain lifestyle guidelines. First, it's important to blink frequently. Blinking helps rest the eyes and reduce eye strain. Second, avoid prolonged screen time on devices like mobile phones and computers. Avoiding caffeinated beverages and alcohol can also be helpful.

Misconceptions and Truths about Floaters

There may be some misconceptions about floaters. Firstly, floaters are not a condition requiring excessive tear production. Instead, they can lead to eye fatigue and irritation due to dry eyes. Secondly, floaters are not solely caused by aging. They can stem from various factors, and with proper treatment and management, the symptoms can be alleviated.

Conclusion

We have explored floaters in this article. Floaters can have various causes and symptoms, and they can be managed through appropriate treatment and prevention. It's crucial to follow precautions in daily life to maintain eye health and adhere to medical advice.