Cause: Eye Procedures and Medications
Eye procedures and certain medications can lead to the development of floaters in the eyes. In some medical procedures, an injection is administered directly into the vitreous of the eyes. These intravitreal injections can occasionally result in the formation of air bubbles. These bubbles, known as floaters, may be visible until they are absorbed by the eye, which can take several weeks. Ophthalmologists often perform vitreoretinal surgeries to treat various eye conditions, including macular degeneration, uveitis, and macular holes. Interestingly, these same surgeries can also be used to remove floaters.
Cause: Underlying Conditions
There are certain underlying conditions that can contribute to the occurrence of eye floaters and flashes, although they may not always be obvious. One such condition is diabetes, which can eventually lead to various eye-related complications like diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema.
Another serious condition that is often associated with immune system diseases like AIDS is cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis. CMV invades the retina and causes damage to the light receptors responsible for vision. While this condition is usually painless, it does result in the appearance of floaters and specks in the field of vision.
In individuals who are HIV-positive, CMV infections can be life-threatening if left untreated. Therefore, immediate medical attention is necessary to manage and treat this condition effectively.