Can Dry Eyes Cause Eye Floaters?
November 29, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Dry eyes and eye floaters are two distinct eye conditions that are not directly related to each other. However, in some cases, they might be indirectly connected due to certain underlying factors.
Dry eyes occur when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort, redness, irritation, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Eye floaters, on the other hand, are tiny specks or spots that appear in your field of vision, which can be caused by small pieces of debris in the vitreous gel inside the eye casting shadows on the retina.
While dry eyes themselves might not cause eye floaters, there are certain conditions or factors that could be linked to both dry eyes and eye floaters:
- Age-related changes: As people age, the vitreous gel in the eye may become more liquefied, leading to the development of eye floaters. Age-related changes can also affect tear production and the quality of tears, potentially causing dry eyes.
- Underlying health conditions: Conditions like diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and certain inflammatory diseases can contribute to both dry eyes and eye floaters.
- Eye strain and irritation: Prolonged periods of eye strain or irritation, which might occur in individuals with dry eyes, can lead to an increase in perception of eye floaters.
- Inflammation or infections: Inflammation of the eye or infections can cause changes in the vitreous humor, leading to the appearance of eye floaters. These conditions may also impact tear production and cause dry eyes.
While dry eyes and eye floaters may have overlapping causes or contributing factors, having dry eyes does not directly cause eye floaters. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eyes or noticing persistent eye floaters, it’s essential to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye examination and appropriate management or treatment.