It can positively be demonstrated that human physiology is perhaps the most delicate field in the medical arena. A vast number of complications have been documented and others are still being uncovered that affect the well being of human beings. Eye floaters represent such complications and it is therefore a worthwhile endeavor to take some time out and address the problems that stem from this disease and on the same token, come up with a solution for the same. This paper shall aim to find out the exact nature of the disease, its causes, probable victims and having discussed this; outline a list of possible treatments for the same.
According to Juan (2004) Eye floaters are blood clots, tiny clumps of gel or cells that are found in the “vitreous”. This is the clear fluid that occupies the back chamber of the eye and acts as a lubricant. A common symptom of the floaters is the “photopsia” which refers to flashes of light seen in the line of sight. As much as these floaters may seem to be outside the eye, they are inside and what many people see, are reflections cast on the retina. Other symptoms associated with the same include loss of side vision, blurry vision and migraines.
Eye floaters have different causes and they all depend on various variables like age, biological and environmental factors. The most common cause is the shrinkage of the vitreous covering, a condition commonly known as “vitreous syneresis”. Due to this shrinkage, the water content within the eye is released and forms floaters. Floaters caused by this often appear in a linear formation.
Another documented cause is the posterior vitreous detachments (PVD) and the retinal detachments. Almost every organ in our bodies is subjected to change over time. As a result of this, the vitreous body may lose its support and consequently it contracts. It then causes a large ring-like floater within the eye. Due to this part of the retina may be ripped off by this liquid which leads to a blood leak within the eye causing more floaters in form of dark spots.
Wilkins affirms that blunt eye trauma may also cause floaters. If the eye receives a direct hit, blood clots may be seen at the point of impact. He also states that inferior objects and acute irritation of the eyes may as well lead to floaters (2007). It should be noted that in as much as floaters may seem harmless, depending on the cause they may lead to severe complications and therefore should be looked into as soon as they are discovered.
Another cause of floaters is the regression of the hyaloid artery. This is an artery that runs through the vitreous gel and during pregnancy it regresses. This regression may at times leave cell matter which can be seen as floaters in the eye. These floaters however dissolve as the child grows and should therefore not cause panic to the parents. In addition to the above, ocular allergies and even wearing contact lens often may lead to a depository of debris in the tear film of the eyes and patients view this as floaters.
As a means of prevention a regular visit to the ophthalmologist should avoid such inconveniences. Also many people often undermine the impacts of a good diet towards self medication. Literature supports the fact that adequate water and fresh vegetables help in strengthening the eyes, brain and heart. If regularly taken these natural remedies may help avoid the formation and even neutralize existing floaters. In addition to this regular exercise also help in preventing floaters. Having excessive weight of fats in the body has been known to cause complications to patients including floaters. Exercise therefore help in losing weight and at the same time enhances blood flow which reduces chances of blood clots within the system.
In matters of remedies, various treatments have been developed over time. However, these treatments should be adopted only for serious cases as most floaters vanish naturally without the need for medical interventions. Laser treatment has of recent been introduced as a method of treatment for floaters. There is no specific treatment for cases where the retina has been damaged by the vitreous gel however laser therapy or even surgery may help alleviate the problem. Also eye drops may be used as a form of medication for acute irritation of the eyes. This in turn reduces the effects of the same and minimizes the chances of getting floaters. Karickhoff (2006) suggests that a new treatment where the vitreous gel is removed and replaced by a special liquid can also be used to clear floaters.
This paper has gone on to reiterate the fact that eye floaters are indeed a reality in life and as such, we should brace ourselves for their occurrence. The motivation of this paper has been to document various problems that stem from this condition. To this end, the various problems that can emanate from floaters, causes and symptoms have been outlined and that being the case, some preventive measures and treatment methods which can be employed have been shed light on. It is hoped that in light of this information, one need no longer look at eye floaters bleakly since it is not terminal and real solutions do exist to the problem.
References
Juan, S. (2004). The Odd Body: Mysteries of Our Weird and Wonderful Bodies Explained. USA: Andrews McMeel Publishing.
Karickhoff, R, J. (2006). Laser treatment of eye floaters. USA: Washington Medical Publishing.
Williams, L, & Wilkins. (2007). Interpreting signs and symptoms. USA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.