What Are Eye Floaters?
Eye floaters are small specks, cobweb-like shapes, or thread-like strands that drift across your field of vision. They are particularly noticeable when you’re looking at a bright background, like a clear sky or a white wall.
These floaters are actually tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous — the clear, jelly-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. While they may seem like they’re on the surface of your eye, they are actually floating inside and casting shadows on your retina.
Common Descriptions of Floaters:
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Black or gray dots
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Squiggly lines or strings
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Cobweb-like shapes
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Transparent or shadowy specs that move with your eye
Are Eye Floaters Normal?
Yes, in most cases, floaters are a normal part of the aging process. As we age, the vitreous slowly shrinks and becomes more liquid, which can cause it to pull away from the retina — a process known as posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). This is the most common cause of floaters and is generally harmless.
When Should You Worry?
While floaters are usually harmless, a sudden increase in floaters — especially when accompanied by flashes of light, blurred vision, or a curtain-like shadow in your peripheral vision — could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency.
See an eye specialist immediately if you notice:
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A sudden shower of new floaters
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Bright flashes of light in your vision
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Loss of peripheral (side) vision
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A gray or dark curtain moving across your field of view
Treatment for Eye Floaters
In most cases, no treatment is required, and floaters become less noticeable over time. However, if floaters significantly interfere with your vision or daily activities, treatment options may include:
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Vitrectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the vitreous gel and replace it with a clear solution. This is typically reserved for severe cases.
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Laser therapy (YAG laser): This technique aims to break up floaters, making them less noticeable. Its effectiveness varies and it’s not widely used.
Tips to Cope with Floaters
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Try to ignore them; they often become less noticeable with time.
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Wear sunglasses in bright light to reduce contrast.
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Avoid staring at plain, bright backgrounds for long periods.
