If you’ve ever noticed tiny specks or stringy shapes drifting across your vision, you’ve probably experienced eye floaters. They show up suddenly, and it can be a little unsettling to see them move around as your eyes move.
In this blog, we explain what floaters are, why they happen, and when to schedule a comprehensive eye exam to protect your vision.
What do eye floaters look like?
Eye floaters can show up as faint dots, cobweb-like strands, or small shadows that drift across your vision. They often seem to slip out of view as soon as you try to focus on them.¹
Floaters become especially noticeable when you look at bright backgrounds such as a blue sky or a white wall. While they may look like something in front of your eyes, floaters actually form inside them.
Common causes of eye floaters
Floaters are typically caused by age-related changes in the vitreous (the clear jelly-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina). As the vitreous thickens and shifts, tiny collagen fibers group together into small clumps or strands. These clumps block some of the light passing through your eyes.
Other conditions that can cause eye floaters include¹:
- Inflammation in the back of the eye (posterior uveitis): Inflammation creates tiny particles in the vitreous that appear as floaters. It may be linked to infections, autoimmune disorders, or inflammatory diseases.
- Bleeding inside the eye: Blood cells can look like floaters and may result from retinal tears, diabetes, high blood pressure, blocked blood vessels, or injuries.
- Retinal tears or detachment: If the vitreous pulls on the retina, it can tear and may lead to retinal detachment without prompt care. Both retinal tears and detachment can cause a sudden increase in floaters.
- Eye surgeries or medications: Procedures or injections can introduce air or silicone bubbles into the vitreous. These bubbles appear as floaters until your eye absorbs them.
When eye floaters are considered dangerous
Most floaters are harmless, but new or sudden changes can be a sign of a more serious issue. Contact our trusted optometrists in Raleigh and Morrisville immediately if you notice:
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters
- Light flashes that look like camera flashes or sparks
- Dark shadows or a curtain across your vision
- Floaters following an injury to your eye
Symptoms like this can mean you have a retinal tear or a detachment, which needs to be treated right away to prevent vision loss. If you have been experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait to schedule an exam.
How eye doctors diagnose floaters
During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist uses special instruments to look at the back of your eye. Dilating your pupils or using digital retinal imaging provides a clearer view of your retina and vitreous, making it easier to detect tears, thinning areas, or signs of inflammation.
Regular eye exams are especially important if you are nearsighted, have a family history of retinal problems, or recently switched your glasses prescription and noticed new floaters.
Keep your eyes healthy and clear
Eye floaters can be normal, but your vision always deserves attention. If you’re noticing new floaters or changes in your vision, schedule an appointment so one of our eye doctors can check your eyes and help protect your long-term eye health.
Schedule your eye exam today and ensure clear, comfortable vision for years to come.
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