What Are Floaters?

Chances are good that if you have lived long enough, you have experienced an eye floater or two. On the other hand, if you are under the age of twenty-one, you might not have yet had the joy of seeing these peculiar and small obstructions in your line of sight. If you live in or around the greater Bakersfield area and have questions about floaters or want to see an optometrist for your eye care needs, our team at Innovative Eye Care can help.

Floaters: What are They and What You Need to Know

As we get older, we are more likely to see these odd but generally harmless objects that seemingly "float" across our field of view. Hence, the name. But what are these strange and infrequent spots?

According to the renowned and highly respected Mayo Clinic, "Most eye floaters are caused by age-related changes that occur as the jelly-like substance (vitreous) inside your eyes liquifies and contracts. Scattered clumps of collagen fibers form within the vitreous and can cast tiny shadows on your retina. The shadows you see are called floaters."

Are they dangerous or should you be concerned? In most cases, the good news is that floaters are generally harmless and don't occur often. When those floaters begin to become more frequent, though, it is time to seek optometry professionals for a second look.

Other signs to be aware of are flashes of light or loss of sight. These issues require immediate attention, and you should seek an optometrist sooner rather than later. Fortunately, these cases are rare, yet they are also reminders of why we should see the optometrist regularly.

Contact Our Eye Doctor in Bakersfield, CA

Are you looking for an eye doctor near you? If you are looking for an eye doctor in or around Bakersfield, then look no further than our caring and professional team at Innovative Eye Care. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment today for all your eye care needs.