What causes eye floaters?
Have you noticed tiny squiggles, flashes, or shadows in your vision? You might be experiencing eye floaters—common visual phenomena caused by clumps of vitreous gel casting shadows on the retina.
Eye floaters happen when small bits of the eye’s vitreous humor, a jelly-like substance that fills the middle of the eye, start to liquefy and form strands or clumps. As they move, they create shadows that appear in your field of vision.
Certain factors make eye floaters more likely, including:
- Being nearsighted
- Age over 50
- Recovery from cataract surgery
- Swelling or inflammation inside the eye
Floaters are particularly noticeable when looking at plain backgrounds, such as a blue sky, white walls, or bright computer screens. According to Rochester Regional Health ophthalmologist Dr. Luca Zatreanu, eye floaters are especially common after age 50 due to a process called posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), where the vitreous gel naturally separates from the retina.
How to treat eye floaters
In most cases, eye floaters are harmless and do not require medical intervention. Many people find that they become less noticeable over time.
For patients with floaters that significantly interfere with daily activities, an eye care specialist may recommend a vitrectomy—a surgical procedure that removes the vitreous gel from the eye. However, surgery carries risks and is typically reserved for severe cases.
The best initial approach for most patients is simple: monitor the floaters and try to ignore them unless symptoms worsen.
When to see an eye doctor
While most floaters are benign, certain symptoms may signal more serious conditions like a retinal tear or detachment. Contact an eye care professional immediately if you experience:
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters
- Frequent or intense flashes of light
- Floaters and flashes occurring together
- Floaters or flashes following an eye injury or surgery
- A shadow, veil, or curtain effect in your peripheral vision
These symptoms require prompt evaluation, including a complete dilated eye exam, to protect your vision.
If you notice new or worsening floaters, don’t delay—early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing serious complications.
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