Have you ever noticed tiny spots, squiggly lines, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision? These visual disturbances are called eye floaters, and for most people, they’re a normal part of aging. However, in some cases, floaters can signal an underlying eye condition that requires prompt attention.

What Are Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are small clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear, jelly-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. As we age, the vitreous slowly shrinks and becomes more liquid, causing microscopic fibers within it to clump together. These clumps cast tiny shadows on the retina, which appear as floaters in your field of vision. Floaters can come in many shapes - dots, circles, lines, or threadlike strands. They move as your eyes move and may seem to dart away when you try to look at them directly.
 

What Causes Eye Floaters?

Most floaters are harmless and simply a natural result of the eye’s aging process. However, other possible causes include:
 

• Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD): Common after age 50, when the vitreous pulls away from the retina.

• Eye injury: Trauma can disrupt the vitreous and create floaters.

• Nearsightedness: People who are nearsighted are more likely to experience floaters at a younger age.

• Eye inflammation: Conditions such as uveitis can cause floaters due to inflammation in the eye.

• Previous eye surgery or laser treatments.

What’s Normal and When Should You Worry?

Occasional floaters are very common and usually nothing to worry about. However, sudden changes in the number, size, or shape of floaters - especially if accompanied by flashes of light, peripheral vision loss, or a shadow/curtain over part of your vision—could indicate a more serious problem, such as:
 

• Retinal tear or detachment: This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention to prevent permanent vision loss.

• Vitreous hemorrhage: Bleeding into the vitreous can cause a sudden shower of floaters and needs urgent evaluation.

When to See a Doctor

You should schedule an eye exam right away if you experience:
 

• A sudden increase in floaters

• Flashes of light

• Loss of side vision

• A dark curtain or shadow moving across your vision

• Eye pain or discomfort along with floaters

Regular comprehensive eye exams can help monitor floaters and detect any underlying eye issues before they become serious.

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

While most eye floaters are harmless and a normal part of aging, it’s important to recognize when changes in your vision may indicate a more serious condition. If you notice any sudden changes, flashes of light, or vision loss, contact your eye care professional immediately.
 

If you’re concerned about floaters, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Ishigo Optometry to get expert answers and personalized care for your eyes. Visit our office in Gardena, California, or call (888) 564-0016 to book an appointment today.