Have you ever noticed a tiny speck, squiggly line, or cobweb-like shape drifting across your vision?
These are called floaters, and they are extremely common.
In many cases, floaters are related to normal changes inside the eye as we age. However, a sudden change in floaters can sometimes be a warning sign of a retinal tear or retinal detachment.
What Are Eye Floaters?
The inside of your eye is filled with a clear, gel-like substance called the vitreous.
As we age, the vitreous naturally changes. Tiny fibers or clumps can form within it and cast shadows on the retina.
You see those shadows as floaters.
They may look like:
- Small dots or specks
- Threads or strings
- Squiggly lines
- Rings
- Cobweb-like shapes
Are Floaters a Normal Part of Aging?
Often, yes.
Eventually, the vitreous may separate from the retina, a process known as a posterior vitreous detachment, or PVD.
A PVD is common with age and often does not cause a serious problem. However, as the vitreous separates, it can sometimes pull hard enough on the retina to create a tear.
That is why new or suddenly increasing floaters should not simply be assumed to be normal aging.
When Can Floaters Be a Warning Sign?
Contact an eye doctor promptly if you experience:
- A sudden increase in floaters
- Many new floaters appearing at once
- New flashes of light
- A shadow in your peripheral vision
- A dark curtain or veil moving across your vision
- New blurry or decreased vision with floaters
What Is a Retinal Detachment?
If a retinal tear develops, fluid can sometimes pass through the opening and separate the retina from the tissue underneath it.
This is called a retinal detachment.
A retinal detachment is a medical emergency because an untreated detachment can result in permanent vision loss.
It typically does not cause eye pain, which is another reason recognizing visual warning signs is important.
What About Flashes of Light?
Flashes can occur when the vitreous pulls or tugs on the retina.
People may describe brief flashes, streaks of light, flickering, or something resembling lightning in the side of their vision.
New flashes, particularly when they occur with a sudden increase in floaters, should be evaluated promptly.
How Does an Eye Doctor Check New Floaters?
A dilated eye examination allows the doctor to examine the retina and look for a retinal tear, detachment, bleeding, or another condition that could be causing your symptoms.
Most ordinary age-related floaters do not require treatment. The important step is determining whether they are harmless or a symptom of something requiring immediate attention.
If you suddenly see a shower of new floaters, flashes of light, a dark shadow, or a curtain across your vision, seek urgent eye care.
At North Columbus Eye Center, we evaluate changes in vision and retinal health through comprehensive and dilated eye examinations.
