Have you noticed tiny shapes or spots drifting across your vision? Floaters can be surprising and sometimes unsettling. They often result from natural changes in your eyes, but certain signs can indicate a more serious issue.
In this blog, we’ll explain why floaters appear, how to tell if they are dangerous, and how a comprehensive eye exam can keep your vision safe.
What are eye floaters?
Eye floaters are small, dark spots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes that seem to drift when you move your eyes. They often stand out against bright, plain backgrounds like a white wall or clear blue sky.¹
Floaters form when tiny clumps of collagen or other particles float in the vitreous, the gel-like substance inside your eyes. Light passing through these clumps casts shadows on your retina, which your brain perceives as floating shapes. They’re usually harmless but often become more noticeable with age.
Eye floater causes
Several factors can make floaters appear in your vision:
- Age-related changes in the vitreous: Over time, the vitreous gel naturally thins and forms clumps or strands that cast shadows on your retina.
- Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD): This happens when the vitreous separates from the retina. It can cause a sudden increase in floaters and occasional flashes of light.
- Eye trauma or surgery: Injuries or procedures such as cataract surgery can disturb the vitreous and create additional floaters.
- Inflammation or infection: Conditions like uveitis can leave debris in the vitreous, leading to visible floaters.
Warning signs that floaters may be serious
Most floaters are harmless, but contact an eye doctor immediately if you notice¹:
- A sudden surge in floaters
- Flashes of light in your vision
- A dark shadow or curtain over part of your visual field
- Loss of peripheral vision
These could signal retinal tears or detachment, which require urgent care to prevent permanent vision loss.
How to treat eye floaters
During a comprehensive eye exam, our experienced eye doctors in Madison can carefully examine your retina and vitreous to identify the cause of floaters. Detecting issues early allows for prompt treatment and reduces the risk of complications.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Some cases require careful monitoring, while others may need procedures to repair retinal tears or detachments. Most floaters, however, can be safely managed without surgery.
Tips to make eye floaters less noticeable
You can’t always prevent floaters, but these strategies may reduce eye strain and make them less distracting:
- Give your eyes a break by stepping away from screens throughout the day
- Read or work in bright, evenly lit spaces to reduce strain
- Protect your eyes from glare and UV rays by wearing sunglasses outdoors
- Keep up with regular eye exams to monitor your eye health
Keep your vision clear and protected
Noticing floaters can be unsettling, but our experienced eye doctors can help identify if they are harmless or need further care. A comprehensive eye exam gives you confidence in your eye health and helps protect your vision before any issues become serious.
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