Have you spotted tiny dots, squiggly lines, or shadows moving across your vision? These are called eye floaters and seeing them can be unsettling. While most floaters are harmless, some may signal a serious eye issue that requires immediate attention.
In this blog, we’ll explore what causes eye floaters, what to watch for, and how a comprehensive eye exam can help keep your vision healthy and clear.
What do eye floaters look like?
Floaters can look like tiny spots, string-like shapes, or spiderweb patterns that shift as your eyes move. They often seem to dart away when you try to look directly at them.¹
Bright backgrounds, like a sunny sky or a white wall, make floaters more noticeable. Even though they appear to float in front of your eyes, floaters form inside the eye.
What causes eye floaters?
Age-related changes in the vitreous (the gel-like fluid that fills your eye) usually cause floaters. Tiny fibers inside the gel clump together, casting shadows on the retina that you perceive as floaters.
Other factors that may contribute include¹:
- Inflammation at the back of the eye: Posterior uveitis, caused by infection, autoimmune disorders, or inflammatory conditions, can leave particles in the vitreous that appear as floaters.
- Bleeding inside the eye: Blood cells from retinal tears, diabetes, high blood pressure, blocked blood vessels, or eye injuries may show up as floaters.
- Retinal tears or detachment: When the vitreous tugs on the retina strongly enough, it can tear. Without treatment, this may lead to retinal detachment and a sudden surge in floaters.
- Eye procedures or medications: Certain injections or surgeries may introduce tiny air or silicone bubbles into the vitreous, which look like floaters until the eye absorbs them.
When floaters may be a warning sign
Although most floaters are harmless, sudden changes can indicate a more serious eye condition. Contact our trusted optometrists in Blue Island immediately if you notice:
- A sudden increase in floaters
- Flashes of light, like sparks or camera flashes
- Shadows or a curtain over part of your vision
- Floaters after an eye injury
These signs may signal a retinal tear or detachment that needs immediate attention to protect your vision.
How eye doctors evaluate floaters
During a comprehensive eye exam, the optometrist examines the retina and vitreous using specialized equipment. Pupil dilation or an advanced retinal scan provides a detailed look at the back of your eye, helping detect tears, thinning areas, or signs of inflammation early.
Regular checkups are especially helpful for those who are nearsighted, have family members with retinal problems, or notice new floaters after changing their glasses or contact lenses.
Protect your eyes and maintain clear vision
It can be unsettling to see floating objects in your vision, but being aware of any changes helps safeguard your eye health in the long run. Our optometrists at Vision Salon Eye Care Associates can examine your eyes, answer questions about floaters, and help keep your vision clear and comfortable.
Schedule an appointment today to check your eyes and keep your vision sharp and healthy for the years ahead.
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