Eye floaters are small visual disturbances that appear as dots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision. They often become most noticeable against bright backgrounds, like a blue sky or a white wall. Floaters move when your eyes move, sometimes darting away when you try to focus on them. Some may stay relatively still, while others drift continuously. In certain cases, people also experience flashes of light alongside floaters.
Why Do Eye Floaters Occur?
Floaters are actually tiny clumps of collagen protein floating in the vitreous—the gel-like substance filling the back of the eye. As we age, these fibers can shrink and clump together, casting shadows on the retina that appear as floaters. Flashes of light, on the other hand, occur when the vitreous gel pulls on the retina.
When to See an Eye Doctor
While floaters are usually harmless, a sudden increase in their number or the appearance of frequent light flashes can indicate a more serious condition. It’s important to see an eye doctor immediately if:
- Floaters or flashes appear suddenly
- You experience vision loss
- You notice a dark curtain-like shadow in your vision
These symptoms can signal problems such as retinal tears, retinal detachment, uveitis (inflammation), eye infections, vitreous hemorrhage, or migraines.
Who Is Most Affected?
Eye floaters are most common in people aged 50 to 75, those who are nearsighted, or individuals who have undergone cataract surgery. Though usually benign, monitoring any sudden visual changes is essential for maintaining healthy vision.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
According to Vision Center, diagnosis typically involves a dilated eye exam, where special drops widen the pupils so the doctor can inspect the vitreous and retina.
If treatment is needed, two main medical procedures are available:
- Vitrectomy: A surgical procedure that removes the vitreous gel—and the floaters within it—through a small incision.
- Laser Therapy: A less invasive, experimental approach that uses lasers to break up and reduce floaters.
Maintaining Healthy Vision
Regular eye check-ups are the best way to protect your sight and detect any underlying issues early. Being aware of symptoms like sudden flashes or changes in vision can help prevent serious eye conditions.
Share this information with your family and friends to help them understand how to keep their eyes healthy and when to seek professional care.
