What are Floaters?

Eye floaters are a common occurrence that many people experience at some point in their lives. People describe floaters as small specks or shapes that float in your field of vision. Floaters are especially noticeable when you look at a plain background like a blue sky or a white wall. Floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside of the vitreous, and you are seeing the shadows they cast on your retina.

Most eye floaters are harmless and do not require treatment. However, if you suddenly notice a significant increase in the number of floaters, experience flashes of light, a shadow appears in your peripheral vision, or you have a curtain cover part of your vision, it is important to seek immediate medical attention as these could be signs of a more serious eye condition, such as a retinal detachment.

Floaters tend to fade or become less noticeable over time. If you have persistent bothersome floaters that affect your vision, there are newer treatment options such as laser therapy to break them apart or surgery to remove them. Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams to monitor your eye health and address any concerns promptly.