It’s a familiar experience for many: a small, shadowy shape floating in your vision, moving around as you shift your gaze. Whether it's a tiny speck, a thread-like line, or a more irregular blob, these "floaters" can seem mysterious and often a little unsettling. Most of us encounter them at some point in our lives, but few understand what they actually are. For some, these floaters are merely an occasional nuisance, while for others, they can be a source of concern. But what exactly are they, and why do they appear?
While floaters are usually harmless and tend to become more common with age, their presence can also signal an underlying issue. If the vitreous humour is pulling away from the retina or if there is a tear, a more serious condition like a retinal detachment could occur. For this reason, it’s important to keep an eye out for any sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light, as these could be warning signs.
While floaters are most often benign, they can sometimes indicate a more serious condition. For example, a sudden increase in floaters, especially if accompanied by flashes of light or a shadow in the peripheral vision, can signal a retinal tear or detachment. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent permanent vision loss.2
In some cases, if floaters significantly impair vision, a procedure called a vitrectomy may be considered. During this surgery, the vitreous humour is removed and replaced with a saline solution. However, this procedure carries risks and is typically only recommended in severe cases.3
DID YOU KNOW?
Eye floaters are black spots that appear in your visual field, often resembling tiny dots or cobwebs. They are most noticeable against a clear sky or white wall. The vitreous, a gel-like substance in the eye, shrinks and liquefies with age, forming tiny clumps or strands that cast shadows on the retina, leading to floaters. Although typically harmless, a retina check should be done when floaters first appear to rule out complications.
While floaters are common with age, they can signal more serious conditions. As the vitreous separates from the retina (posterior vitreous detachment), it can cause tears or holes, often without additional symptoms. Red flags include sudden floaters, an increase in number or size, flashes of light, or vision loss, requiring prompt attention from a specialist.
Regular eye exams are essential for early detection. Annual checks are recommended, particularly for those over 50 or with conditions like diabetes or hypertension. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, limiting screen time, protecting eyes from UV light, and managing conditions like diabetes, can help maintain eye health and reduce the risk of serious issues.
Floaters can also be linked to health problems like retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, trauma, or post-treatment effects. Managing systemic conditions and having regular eye exams is crucial for early detection.
Public awareness of floaters is often limited. To improve early detection, it's important to promote eye exams, launch awareness campaigns, and train healthcare professionals to recognise red flags. Schools and workplaces should also provide basic eye health education, helping individuals seek timely medical attention and protect their vision.
Dr Sri Ganesh
Ophthalmologist, Chairman & Managing Director
Nethradhama Hospitals Pvt Ltd in Bangalore, India
References