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Things That Float in the Eye

Seeing shapes or zig-zag lines in front of your eyes may be annoying, but usually they are not dangerous. When accompanied by flashing lights, you could be experiencing a retinal detachment, which is serious; get medical attention immediate in this case. Otherwise, eyelashes, foreign objects, contact lenses and even parts of the eye can float in your eyes.

  1. Floaters

    • They may look like spots, flecks or translucent spiders, but they are actually parts of the eye that are floating around. The eye is made of a gel-like substance called vitreous humor that can liquefy and lead to pieces breaking off. When gel bits circulate in the eye, these are typically what you call "floaters."

    Contact Lenses

    • Just because you put contact lenses in the eyes properly, it does not mean they will stay put. Contact lenses can move around, feeling like they are floating from one spot to another. Eyes that are dry may cause lenses to stick to the eyelid. Contacts must actually float on the layer of tears to work properly, so if your eyes are dry, they get stuck. If the contact lenses do not fit properly, there may also be more movement.

    Eyelashes

    • Your eyelashes are meant to protect the eyes from foreign object and debris. Yet, sometimes eyelashes will enter the eye and float around. This can cause pain and considerable discomfort until removed. There is also a condition in which the eyelash becomes ingrown, called trichiasis. Although painful and irritating, there is not much you can do to resolve the problem. Check with your ophthalmologist for recommendations.

    Foreign Objects

    • People have reported getting bugs in their eyes. Once they enter, it may be difficult to remove them because they float around in the eye gel. It is also possible to get sand or dust in the eyes. Before you stick fingers in your eyes, the best way to remove foreign objects is to flush them out with saline water. You can also use straight tap water, but this may burn or sting in the process. If you need to use fingers, make sure they are clean.

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