Floaters

What are floaters?

Floaters are tiny dark shapes that drift across your field of vision. They may appear as spots, threads, wavy lines, or even small cobweb-like structures.

Most individuals experience floaters that come and go, and they typically do not require any treatment. However, in some cases, floaters can indicate a more serious eye issue. Therefore, if you notice new floaters that suddenly appear and persist, it is crucial to inform your eye care professional.

What are the symptoms of floaters?

Floaters shift as your eyes move — so when you attempt to focus on them directly, they seem to evade your gaze. When your eyes cease movement, floaters continue to drift across your visual field.

You may become more aware of floaters when looking at bright objects, such as white paper or a clear blue sky.

Am I at risk for floaters?

Nearly everyone develops floaters as they age, but certain individuals are at a greater risk. You may be at an increased risk if you:

  • Are significantly nearsighted

  • Have diabetes

  • Have undergone surgery for cataracts

What causes floaters?

Floaters typically occur due to normal changes in your eyes. As you grow older, small strands of the vitreous (the gel-like substance that fills your eye) clump together and cast shadows on your retina (the light-sensitive tissue located at the back of the eye). These shadows manifest as floaters.

In some instances, floaters can be attributed to more serious conditions, including:

  • Eye infections

  • Eye injuries

  • Uveitis (inflammation of the eye)

  • Bleeding within the eye

  • Vitreous detachment (when the vitreous separates from the retina)

  • Retinal tear (when vitreous detachment creates a hole in the retina)

  • Retinal detachment (when the retina is pulled away from the back of the eye)

When to seek immediate assistance

Occasionally, new floaters may signal a retinal tear or retinal detachment — conditions where the retina is either torn or pulled from its usual position at the back of the eye.

Symptoms may include:

  • A sudden influx of new floaters, sometimes accompanied by flashes of light

  • A dark shadow (similar to a curtain) or a blurry area in your peripheral or central vision

Retinal tears or detachments can constitute a medical emergency. If you experience these symptoms, it is vital to visit your eye doctor or the nearest emergency room without delay.

How will my doctor evaluate floaters?

Your doctor can assess for floaters during a dilated eye examination. The doctor will administer eye drops to dilate (enlarge) your pupil and then examine your eyes for floaters and other potential eye issues.

This examination is generally painless. The doctor may apply pressure to your eyelids to check for retinal tears, which could be uncomfortable for some patients.

What is the treatment for floaters?

The treatment for floaters is contingent upon their underlying cause. If your floaters result from another eye condition, you may require treatment for that specific issue.

If your floaters are a result of aging and do not cause you any distress, you likely will not need any treatment.

However, if your floaters obstruct your vision and disrupt your daily activities, your eye doctor may recommend a surgical procedure known as vitrectomy to eliminate the floaters. Be sure to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor