Can Dry Eye Cause Floaters?

Have you seen specks or lines floating in your vision? If so, these are floaters. They can be very annoying, but do not worry — they are usually not harmful. You are probably familiar with dry eyes, too. Dry eyes can cause many vision problems. So, you might wonder if there is a connection between dry eyes and floaters.
 

Understanding Dry Eyes

Think of your eyes like windows that need constant cleaning. Tears are like little window washers, keeping everything clear and fresh. When you do not make enough tears, your eyes get dry and irritated.
 

It is not fun — your eyes might feel scratchy, burn, or look red. Your vision could even get blurry. It is like trying to look through a dirty window.
 

What Are Floaters?

As you age, vitreous humor can start to break down. Little bits of it float around inside your eye, casting tiny shadows on the back of your eye. Those shadows are what you see as floaters. They might look like dots, lines, or cobwebs drifting across your vision.
 

The Connection Between Dry Eyes and Floaters

So, are dry eyes and floaters directly connected? Not really. One does not cause the other. But they have something in common: they both tend to happen more as people age. Your body changes as you age, and your eyes are no exception.
 

You make fewer tears as time goes on, which can lead to dry eyes. At the same time, the vitreous humor in your eyes starts to break down, causing floaters.
 

Other Factors That Affect Eye Health

Getting older is not the only reason you might get dry eyes or floaters. Spending too much time staring at screens can dry out your eyes and might make you notice floaters more. Some health problems, like diabetes or allergies, can mess with your eyes, too.
 

Even certain medicines can make your eyes dry as a side effect. And if you sustain an eye injury, that could increase your chances of getting dry eyes or floaters.
 

When to See an Eye Doctor

Most of the time, floaters are just a normal, if annoying, part of life. They usually fade away on their own. But sometimes, they can be a sign of a bigger problem. If you suddenly see more floaters than usual, or if you start seeing flashes of light, it is time to see an eye doctor.
 

Keeping Your Eyes Healthy

Even though you cannot stop yourself from aging, you can do things to keep your eyes happy and healthy. Try to blink more often, especially when you are using screens. It helps spread tears over your eyes.

If your eyes feel dry, using artificial tears can help. And do not forget to drink plenty of water. Hydration is good for your whole body, including your eyes.
 

Your eyes are incredible. They let you see the world around you, from the tiniest details to the grandest vistas. So, they deserve good care. While dry eyes and floaters might be annoying, they are usually just part of the aging process. By taking good care of your eyes, you can help keep your vision clear and your eyes comfortable for years.
 

For more eye care tips, visit Norwood Family Eye Care at our Bartlett, Tennessee, office. Call (901) 617-8095 to schedule an appointment today.
 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dry-eyes-and-floaters#