Eye floaters are small specks, squiggly lines, or cobweb-like images that appear to drift in your field of vision. These visual disturbances are common and can be a temporary side effect following certain eye injections. While generally harmless, they can be noticeable and sometimes a cause for concern.
Understanding Post-Injection Floaters
Floaters that appear after an eye injection result from the procedure. One common cause is the introduction of tiny air bubbles into the vitreous humor, the jelly-like substance that fills the eye. These air bubbles create shadows on the retina, which are perceived as floaters.
Microscopic particles from the injected medication, such as steroids or anti-VEGF drugs, can also cause floaters. These medications treat conditions like wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, and retinal vein occlusion. The displacement of the vitreous jelly during the injection process can also temporarily increase the visibility of existing floaters.
How Long Floaters Typically Last
The duration of post-injection floaters varies depending on their cause. Floaters caused by small air bubbles introduced during the injection usually dissipate quickly, often within 24 to 48 hours. As the eye naturally absorbs the air, these round, dark floaters in the center of your vision will shrink and disappear.
Floaters resulting from medication particles may take longer to resolve. While most disappear within a few days, some can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks. Certain types of steroid implants can remain in the eye for an extended period, causing floaters that persist until the drug is removed. The type of medication, the size of any bubbles, and individual healing rates can all influence how long these visual disturbances are noticeable.
When to Contact Your Eye Doctor
While post-injection floaters are often a normal and temporary side effect, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. A sudden increase in the number or size of floaters, especially if accompanied by new flashes of light, could indicate a more serious underlying issue. The appearance of a curtain or shadow in your vision, or a sudden decrease in vision, are also concerning signs.
Severe eye pain that does not subside, or a severely red eye, also require prompt evaluation. These symptoms could signal a retinal tear, retinal detachment, or an infection, all of which need urgent treatment to prevent potential permanent vision loss. Consult your eye doctor if you have any concerns following an eye injection.