Have you noticed tiny dots, thread-like shapes, or shadows moving across your vision? These are called eye floaters and spotting them can be alarming. Most floaters are harmless, but new or a large number of eye floaters can be a sign of an underlying eye issue.
In this blog, we’ll explain what causes eye floaters, what signs to watch for, and how a comprehensive eye exam can help protect your vision.
What do eye floaters look like?
Floaters can appear as tiny spots, thread-like lines, or web-like shapes that move with your eyes. They may seem to move away when you try to look directly at them.¹
You’ll notice floaters more against bright backgrounds like a sunny sky or a white wall. Even though they appear to float in front of your eyes, floaters form inside the vitreous, the clear gel filling the eye.
Common causes of eye floaters
Most floaters happen because of natural changes in the vitreous as we age. Tiny fibers in the gel clump together, casting shadows on the retina that you see as floaters.
Other causes include:
- Inflammation in the back of the eye: Conditions like posterior uveitis, caused by infections, autoimmune issues, or other inflammatory problems, can leave particles in the vitreous that show up as floaters.
- Bleeding inside the eye: Blood cells from retinal tears, diabetes, high blood pressure, blocked vessels, or eye injuries can appear as floaters.
- Retinal tears or detachment: If the vitreous pulls on the retina, it can cause a tear. Without treatment, this may progress to retinal detachment, often leading to a sudden surge of floaters.
- Eye surgeries or medications: Some procedures or injections can introduce tiny air or silicone bubbles in the vitreous that look like floaters until your eye absorbs them.
When floaters may be serious
Most floaters are harmless, but sudden changes can indicate a more serious problem. Contact our trusted optometrists in Shelton or Waterbury right away if you notice:
- A rapid increase in the number of floaters
- Flashes of light, like sparks or little camera flashes
- Dark shadows or a curtain blocking part of your vision
- Floaters that appear after an eye injury
These signs could mean you have a retinal tear or detachment that needs immediate attention to protect your vision.
How eye doctors evaluate floaters
During an eye exam, your optometrist takes a close look at the back of your eye using specialized tools. Pupil dilation or a retinal scan gives a clear view of the retina and vitreous, helping catch tears, thinning areas, or signs of inflammation early.
Routine exams are especially important if you are nearsighted, have a family history of retinal issues, or recently updated your glasses or contact lenses and noticed new floaters.
Protect your vision and keep it clear
Spotting floaters may cause you a significant amount of concern, but keeping an eye on any changes helps protect your vision over time. Our optometrists at Vision Center LTD and Waterbury Eye Associates can examine your eyes, answer your questions, and recommend treatment if necessary.
Schedule an appointment today to keep your vision clear, comfortable, and healthy for years to come.
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