Almost everyone experiences eye floaters at some point — those small spots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your field of vision. While most floaters are harmless, understanding when they become a cause for concern could save your sight.
What Causes Floaters?
The vitreous — a clear, gel-like substance that fills the interior of the eye — gradually liquefies with age. As it shrinks, tiny fibers within the vitreous clump together and cast shadows on the retina, which we perceive as floaters.
When to Seek Immediate Help
Seek urgent evaluation if you experience:
- A sudden shower of new floaters
- Flashes of light, especially in peripheral vision
- A shadow or curtain across part of your vision
- Sudden decrease in vision
These symptoms may indicate a retinal tear or detachment — a sight-threatening emergency that requires prompt treatment.
Treatment Options
Most benign floaters require no treatment and become less noticeable over time. For retinal tears, laser treatment can seal the tear and prevent detachment. If a retinal detachment has occurred, vitrectomy surgery may be needed.