Expert: Dr. Margaret Placentra Johnston, OD - 6/30/2009

Question
Hi,

I have always noticed my eye floaters for years now I am 21.  It seems like I have received a little bit more now not really sure.  I am nearsighted and my numbers on my contacts are -2.00 and -2.25...two years ago I was -1.50 and -1.75.  Should I be worried that this is a sign of retina detachment?

Answer
Anyone who notices or suspects an increase in floaters should have a dilated eye exam to be sure their retina is intact.  

That being said, some other factors to know about are:

-there is less risk of it being due to a retinal problem if the floaters are in both eyes and not greatly more severe in one versus the other.  

-people seem to notice floaters more if they are over-tired or under stress.

-your relatively low prescription does not put you at especially high risk for a retinal detachment.  (It would be more likely in someone who was like a -8.00 or -10.00.)

-your age puts you at relatively low risk for RD.

-despite the relatively low risk, if you have not had a dilated exam in the recent past, you really should do so.

-if there are any flashes of light involved, you absolutely must go in for that dilated exam and quickly.