Have you noticed tiny specks, threads, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision? Eye floaters can be alarming, especially if they appear suddenly. They are often harmless, but some changes may indicate a more serious problem.
In this blog, we’ll explain what causes eye floaters, signs they may be serious, and how a comprehensive eye exam can help ensure your eyes are healthy.
What are eye floaters?
Eye floaters look like tiny specks or wispy shapes that drift across your vision. You may notice them more against bright, uniform backgrounds such as a clear sky or a blank wall.¹
These shapes appear when small clumps of collagen or particles move within the vitreous, the clear gel that fills the inside of your eye. As light passes through, those particles cast shadows on the retina. Your brain sees those shadows as floating spots or threads. Floaters are often harmless, and many people see more of them as they get older.
What causes eye floaters?
Floaters can appear for several reasons:
- Age-related changes in the vitreous: As you get older, the vitreous gel naturally thins and forms clumps or strands that cast shadows on the retina.
- Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD): When the vitreous pulls away from the retina, you may suddenly notice more floaters and occasional flashes of light.
- Eye trauma or surgery: Injuries or procedures like cataract surgery can disturb the vitreous and lead to new floaters.
- Inflammation or infection: Conditions such as uveitis can leave debris in the vitreous, resulting in visible floaters.
When floaters in the eye could be serious
While most floaters are harmless, it’s important to contact an eye doctor right away if you notice¹:
- A sudden or rapid increase in floaters
- Flashes of light in your vision
- A dark shadow or curtain covering part of your sight
- Loss of peripheral vision
These warning signs could indicate retinal tears or detachments, which require urgent care to prevent permanent vision loss.
How to treat eye floaters
During a comprehensive eye exam, our experienced eye doctors in North Colorado Springs can closely examine your retina and vitreous to determine why floaters appear. Identifying issues early allows for timely treatment and reduces the risk of serious complications.
The right treatment depends on what’s causing your floaters. In some situations, your eye doctor may simply monitor the changes over time. If a retinal tear or detachment is present, prompt treatment is necessary to protect your sight. Fortunately, most people can live with floaters comfortably and never need surgery.
Tips to make eye floaters less noticeable
You may not be able to prevent floaters entirely, but these steps can reduce eye strain and make them less distracting:
- Take regular breaks from screens throughout the day
- Read and work in bright, evenly lit spaces
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to minimize glare and UV exposure
- Maintain routine comprehensive eye exams to track eye health
Keep your vision safe and clear
Floaters can be concerning, but don’t worry. Our experienced eye doctors can determine whether they are harmless or require further attention. Scheduling a comprehensive eye exam ensures your eyes are healthy and protects your vision before any issues become serious.
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