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Is It Normal to Have Dots in My Eyes?
Is It Normal to Have Dots in My Eyes?
At the practice of Dr. Edwin M. Schottenstein, we strive to be your go-to for all things regarding your visual health. We provide high-quality eye treatments like cataract surgery and committed, compassionate eye care for all your visual needs. As your comprehensive source for all things related to eye care, we’d like to bring up a common question we often get asked: “Is it normal to have dots in my eyes?”
What Are These Dots in My Eyes?
These dots are referred to as floaters. Floaters got their name because they tend to float around in a person’s eye. These floaters can come in many different shapes, from lines and squiggles to rings and dots. If you try to focus on them, they’ll just dash away. Most people have floaters so it’s generally not a cause to worry.
What Causes Floaters?
Most floaters are actually small particles of a protein known as collagen. This is part of a gel-like substance in the back of your eye – the vitreous. As you get older, the protein fibers that make up this vitreous will begin to shrink and clump together. This will cause them to cast shadows on your retina, which is what appears to you as a floater.
Who Is at Risk for Getting Floaters?
While anyone can get them, those who are the most likely to have them are those who:
- Are over the age of 50
- Are nearsighted
- Have diabetes or diabetic retinopathy
- Had cataract surgery
When Should You See a Doctor?
In most cases, floaters will never require any treatment. Floaters are typically benign and they’ll go away on their own. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you’ll want to see a doctor:
- Flashes of light
- A large jump in the number of floaters you see
- Peripheral vision loss
- Eye pain
Visit Your NYC, Manhattan, and Upper West Side Ophthalmologist!
If you’re looking for an eye doctor in New York City in the Upper West Side, please feel free to give us a call at (212) 874-2300. Alternatively, you can fill out our online appointment request form to schedule your appointment through our website. We can’t wait to hear from you!