Have you seen tiny spots, cobweb-like threads, or shadows drifting across your vision? These are called eye floaters, and they can cause concern or alarm for some people. Although most floaters are harmless, some may be a sign of a serious condition and require immediate medical attention.
In this blog, we’ll explain what causes floaters and how scheduling a comprehensive eye exam can help protect your vision.
What do eye floaters look like?
Floaters often appear as small dots, lines, or spiderweb-like shapes that move when your eyes move. They can seem to dart away whenever you try to focus on them.¹
Floaters are most noticeable when you look at bright surfaces, such as a white wall or a clear blue sky. Even though they look like something floating in front of your eyes, floaters form inside your eye.
What causes eye floaters?
Most floaters develop due to natural changes in the vitreous (the jelly-like substance that fills the middle of the eye) as we age. Tiny collagen fibers within the vitreous tend to clump together, casting shadows on the retina and creating floaters in your vision.
Other causes can include¹:
- Inflammation in the back of the eye (posterior uveitis): Inflammation in this area can produce particles in the vitreous that show up as floaters. Infections, autoimmune disorders, or inflammatory conditions may be responsible.
- Bleeding inside the eye: Blood cells can appear as floaters, sometimes resulting from retinal tears, diabetes, high blood pressure, blocked blood vessels, or injuries.
- Retinal tears or detachment: If the vitreous pulls on the retina with enough force, it can tear. Untreated tears may progress to retinal detachment, often causing a sudden increase in floaters.
- Eye surgeries or medications: Some procedures or injections introduce tiny air or silicone bubbles into the vitreous, which show up as floaters until your eye absorbs them.
When are eye floaters a concern?
Most floaters are harmless, but sudden or dramatic changes can indicate a more serious problem. Contact our trusted optometrist in Fort Kent immediately if you notice:
- A sudden surge in floaters
- Flashes of light, like sparks or camera flashes
- Dark shadows or a curtain blocking part of your vision
- Floaters after an eye injury
These signs may point to a retinal tear or detachment, conditions that require urgent attention to protect your vision.
How eye doctors detect floaters in the eye
During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist examines the back of your eye using specialized tools. Pupil dilation or an Optomap retinal exam provides a clearer view of the retina and vitreous, helping detect tears, thinning, or inflammation early.
Regular exams are especially critical if you are nearsighted, have a family history of retinal issues, or recently updated your glasses or contact lenses and noticed new floaters.
Keep your vision clear and healthy
Noticing floaters can be unsettling, but paying attention to changes helps protect your eyes over time. Our optometrist at Valley Eye Care Associates can check your floaters, answer your questions, and make sure your vision stays comfortable and clear.
Schedule an appointment today and make sure your eyes are ready for the years ahead.
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