Have you ever noticed small specks, shadows or thread-like shapes drifting across your vision, especially when looking at something bright like a clear blue sky or a white wall? These tiny visual disruptions are known as eye floaters and, while they may seem alarming at first, they are usually harmless and a common occurrence as we age.
But what exactly causes these floaters and is there any science behind their appearance? Let’s take a closer look.
What Are Eye Floaters?
Eye floaters are small, shadowy shapes like dots or squiggles that appear in your vision. They form when the gel-like vitreous humor in the eye shrinks with age, causing tiny clumps of collagen to cast shadows on the retina. These shadows are what we see as floaters.
The Science Behind Floaters
The presence of floaters is often related to the natural aging process. As the vitreous detaches from the retina, small bits of tissue or cells may break away and float in the fluid, causing visual disturbances.
When to Be Concerned
For most people, eye floaters are simply a part of getting older and do not pose a significant health risk. However, if you experience a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light or a dark curtain covering part of your vision, you should contact an eye care professional immediately. These could be signs of a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment, which requires prompt medical attention.
Can Eye Floaters Be Treated?
For many people, floaters become less noticeable over time as the brain adjusts to their presence. In rare cases where floaters significantly impact vision, treatments like vitrectomy (surgical removal of the vitreous) or laser therapy to break up the floaters may be considered. However, these procedures are typically only recommended if floaters cause severe visual impairment.
Eye floaters are a natural part of aging and, in most cases, they are nothing to worry about. Floaters are caused by changes in the vitreous humor of the eye which creates shadows on the retina. These are what we see “floating” across our vision. While typically harmless, it’s important to monitor your vision and reach out to us if you notice any sudden or dramatic changes.
Comprehensive Eye Care
From routine eye care to medical and surgical eye treatment, our ophthalmologists and optometrists are focused on your vision and the health of your whole eye.
