Floaters and Spots

Floaters and spots are small, shadowy shapes that drift across your field of vision. They are most noticeable when looking at something bright, like a white wall or the sky. These shapes can appear as dots, lines, or even cobwebs, and are caused by tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear, gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye. As we age, the vitreous becomes more liquefied, and microscopic fibers within it can clump together, casting shadows on the retina and creating the appearance of floaters. Though usually harmless, a sudden increase in floaters, especially when accompanied by flashes of light, can be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment, which requires immediate medical attention.

• Causes: Floaters are most commonly caused by age-related changes in the vitreous gel, but they can also result from eye injuries, inflammation (uveitis), bleeding inside the eye, or complications from eye surgeries. In rare cases, they may signal more serious conditions, such as retinal tears or detachments.
• Symptoms: Floaters appear as tiny specks, lines, or shapes that drift through your vision. These spots may move as you move your eyes and are more noticeable in bright light. Flashes of light or a sudden shower of floaters may indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency.
• Treatment: Most floaters are harmless and do not require treatment. If floaters are particularly bothersome, a vitrectomy (a surgical procedure that removes the vitreous gel) may be recommended, though it carries risks. If floaters are caused by an underlying condition, such as retinal detachment, immediate medical treatment is necessary to prevent vision loss.