Eye Floaters

Eye floaters are small shapes that appear to drift across the field of vision. They may look like spots, threads, cobwebs, or squiggly lines and are most noticeable when looking at a bright background such as a clear sky or white wall. Eye floaters are usually harmless and are caused by age-related changes inside the eye, but in some cases they may signal a more serious eye condition that requires prompt evaluation.

Symptoms

Eye floaters can vary in appearance and frequency. Common symptoms include:

• Small dark or translucent spots in vision

• Thread-like strands or cobweb-shaped shadows

• Shapes that move when the eyes move and drift when the eyes stop

• Increased visibility of floaters in bright light

• Occasional flashes of light when floaters are related to vitreous changes

Sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or loss of side vision may indicate a serious problem.

Causes

Eye floaters develop when tiny fibers within the vitreous, the gel-like substance inside the eye, clump together and cast shadows on the retina. Common causes include:

• Natural aging of the eye

• Vitreous shrinkage or liquefaction

• Posterior vitreous detachment

• Nearsightedness

• Eye injury or trauma

• Inflammation inside the eye

• Complications from eye surgery

• Retinal tears or detachment in rare cases

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing eye floaters, including:

• Advancing age

• Nearsightedness

• Previous eye surgery

• Eye injuries

• Diabetes-related eye disease

• Inflammation of the eye

Complications

Most eye floaters are harmless, but complications can occur if they are associated with underlying eye conditions. Possible complications include:

• Retinal tear

• Retinal detachment

• Vision loss if serious conditions are untreated

• Persistent visual disturbance affecting daily activities

Prevention

Eye floaters cannot always be prevented, especially when related to aging. However, steps that may help protect overall eye health include:

• Regular comprehensive eye examinations

• Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes

• Protecting eyes from injury

• Seeking immediate medical care for sudden floaters, flashes, or vision changes

• Following eye care recommendations after surgery or injury

Early evaluation of new or worsening eye floaters is important to rule out serious eye conditions and preserve vision.