The condition you describe is commonly known as eye floaters. Those experiencing it see small, blurry objects seemingly suspended in their vision. These are not actual external objects, but rather the shadows cast by collagen fibers or cells within the vitreous humor onto the retina.

Most instances of eye floaters are benign, commonly affecting individuals over 40, those with severe myopia, extensive computer users, or after extended periods of fatigue or stress. The most frequent cause is the natural aging process, where the vitreous humor shrinks and condenses over time. Despite this, floaters can also be a warning sign of serious conditions like posterior vitreous detachment, retinal tears or detachment, uveitis, or vitreous hemorrhage resulting from diabetes or hypertension.

Doctor Huy examines a young man's eyes. *Photo illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital*

Patients should seek prompt ophthalmological examination if floaters appear suddenly and in large numbers, accompanied by flashes of light, a dark curtain obscuring part of their vision, or rapid vision loss. These symptoms may signal an ocular emergency, necessitating timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

Benign floaters typically do not require medical intervention, only regular monitoring. Management includes lifestyle adjustments, adequate rest, limiting prolonged electronic screen time, and supplementing eye-healthy nutrition. If floaters severely impact a patient's quality of life or are due to an underlying medical condition, doctors will prescribe treatment with medication, laser, or surgery, depending on the severity.

Dr. Nguyen Duc Huy

Specialist in High-Tech Ophthalmology

Tam Anh General Clinic, District 7