Understanding and Treating Eye Floaters in East Brunswick, NJ

Are you seeing small specks, squiggles, or cobweb-like shadows drifting across your vision? These common visual disturbances are known as eye floaters. While often harmless, a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light can signal a serious, urgent issue requiring immediate attention.

At Ophthalmic Consultants of NJ in East Brunswick, NJ, Dr. Michael Su, a board-certified ophthalmologist, provides comprehensive evaluations for all patients experiencing floaters and flashes. Dr. Su uses state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging to differentiate between benign phenomena and urgent retinal conditions, ensuring you receive timely and appropriate care.

What are Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are tiny bits of debris inside the vitreous, the clear, gel-like substance that fills the main cavity of your eye and maintains its round shape. As we age, the vitreous naturally begins to liquefy and shrink, forming clumps or strands that cast shadows onto the retina—what you see as floaters.

Common Causes of Floaters

The vast majority of floaters are caused by Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD), a normal age-related process where the vitreous separates from the retina. PVD is common, especially after age 60, and usually harmless.

Floaters and Flashes: When to Seek Urgent Care

While seeing a few occasional floaters is normal, a sudden change in your vision demands immediate evaluation by an ophthalmologist.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call our East Brunswick office immediately for an emergency exam:

• A sudden onset of new, numerous floaters.

• Flashes of light (like lightning or camera flashes) in your peripheral (side) vision.

• A shadow or curtain that seems to be pulling over any part of your vision.

These symptoms can indicate a serious, sight-threatening event, such as a Retinal Tear or Retinal Detachment. Prompt diagnosis by Dr. Michael Su is essential to prevent permanent vision loss.

Diagnosing Floaters at Our East Brunswick Practice

When you visit Ophthalmic Consultants of NJ for floaters, Dr. Su will perform a thorough, dilated eye exam to carefully inspect the vitreous and the entire retina.

Our diagnostic steps include:

1. Comprehensive Dilated Exam: This allows Dr. Su to get a wide, clear view of the retina, searching for any tears, detachments, or bleeding that could be the source of the floaters.

2. Advanced Retinal Imaging: We may use specialized imaging technology to document the status of the vitreous and retina.

Treatment Options for Eye Floaters

For most floaters caused by normal PVD, no treatment is needed. They often settle out of the line of sight over weeks or months. Dr. Su generally recommends watchful waiting and regular monitoring.

When Treatment is Necessary

If floaters are numerous, large, and significantly impair your vision or are associated with a retinal issue, Dr. Su will discuss specialized interventions.

Why Choose Dr. Michael Su in East Brunswick, NJ?

As a trusted ophthalmologist serving the East Brunswick community and surrounding Central New Jersey areas, Dr. Michael Su provides the peace of mind you need when dealing with changes in your vision. His expertise ensures that serious conditions are caught early and treated effectively.

If you are seeing new floaters or flashes, don't delay. Call Ophthalmic Consultants of NJ immediately at 732-708-3937 to schedule your urgent eye evaluation with Dr. Michael Su.