Feeling like there are floating objects flying in front of the eyes
Feb 25, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
Feeling as if there are floating objects flying in front of the eyes is generally considered to be floaters, clinically categorized into physiological and pathological types. Treatment may involve medications such as ammonia iodide peptide eye drops or oral lecithin-combined iodine, vancomycin, amikacin, and ceftazidime, depending on the specific type. In addition, parasitic infections can also lead to pathological floaters, causing the sensation of floating objects.
Feeling as if there are floating objects flying in front of the eyes generally belongs to floaters, which can be clinically categorized into physiological and pathological types, with management depending on the specific type.
1. Physiological Floaters:
This condition mainly results from age-related degenerative changes in the vitreous body. Individuals may perceive floating objects in their visual field, sometimes even visible when the eyes are closed. However, upon examination, no pathological changes are found in the vitreous. Physiological floaters typically do not affect vision and therefore usually require no special treatment. If symptoms are particularly bothersome, treatment under medical guidance may include using ammonia iodine peptide eye drops or oral polyunsaturated phosphatidylcholine-iodine complex.
2. Pathological Floaters:
(1) Vitreous Hemorrhage:
Following trauma or surgery, retinal tears or rupture of small retinal blood vessels may occur, leading to bleeding into the vitreous cavity. Blood or exudative fluid entering the vitreous causes the appearance of floating objects. Under a physician's direction, hemostatic medications such as ethamsylate or etamsylate derivatives (e.g., Anternoxin) may be used for treatment.
(2) Vitreous Inflammation:
Inflammation in the vitreous region can lead to inflammatory exudates and cells within the vitreous, causing vitreous opacities and resulting in floaters. Treatment should follow medical advice and may involve antibiotics such as vancomycin, amikacin, or ceftazidime. The route of administration—such as intravitreal injection, subconjunctival injection, intravenous infusion, or topical eye drops—should be determined based on the patient’s specific condition and needs.
In addition, parasitic infections can also cause pathological floaters, leading to the perception of floating objects. It is important to seek timely medical evaluation and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor’s supervision.
