One day a tiny speck suddenly pops up in your field of vision. At first it appears you may have gotten a dust particle or a thread of cobweb in one eye. You try brushing it away, then rinse your eye out with water. It seems to change position as you move, or even temporarily disappear in different lighting. But the annoying obstruction doesn’t go away, and it’s still there the next day.
What could be causing this unwelcome change in your vision, and how concerned should you be about its cause? The doctors of optometry at Omni Eye & Vision (Squamish) are uniquely trained specialists who will determine whether these spots are a harmless development or a sign of a condition that requires immediate attention.
These small specks can sometimes be what are called “floaters,” small, shadowy spots appearing in the fluid inside the eye. Although bothersome, these tiny floaters may be nothing more than flecks of protein or other matter that occur when your eyes are first being formed. They can also be a natural part of the aging process as your eyes’ fluid wears down.
But if you suddenly experience a series of these floaters, accompanied by bright, shining lights, this could be an indication of a more serious problem that could lead to vision loss. A tear in the retina — the eye’s light-sensitive lining — may have occurred, which could cause the retina to detach. Some eye injuries and diseases can also lead to the appearance of these spots.
At Omni Eye & Vision (Squamish), our optometrists will perform a comprehensive examination using state-of-the-art technology and techniques to identify whether what you are experiencing is a common condition experienced by many people, or guide you in deciding the next steps to take if further treatment is indicated. Protecting and preserving your vision are our top priorities. Call our office today to schedule an appointment.
