Many people experience eye floaters as they age. These small spots or strings float across your vision and are typically harmless. 

However, in some cases, eye floaters can signal a more serious problem, especially if there is an increase in size or numbers of the floaters, or they are accompanied by flashes of light. 

What causes eye floaters

The middle of the eye is filled with a gel-like fluid called the vitreous. This is where eye floaters are located.

“As we get older, some of the vitreous liquefies, and our body reabsorbs it,” says ophthalmologist Ivey Thornton, MD. “The leftover gel is unstable and can clump together, casting shadows on your retina.” These shadows are floaters. 

Can I get rid of eye floaters?

Floaters are more annoying than dangerous, but they can be treated. 

“A retina specialist can remove the floaters or vitreous surgically, and the eye will refill that space with fluid it creates,” Dr. Thornton says. “However, most people live with floaters, since any surgery has a small risk. Patients who have a larger floater that is impacting their vision are very likely to be happy with the surgical results.”

‘Floaters’ as a sign of health

Some younger patients with healthy eyes may mistake “entopic phenomena” for floaters. These are visual effects caused by structures within your own eye. For example, when looking at the sky, you may see the blood vessels on your retina. 

“I’ve had young patients think they have a floater, but they’re seeing the entopic phenomenon,” Dr. Thornton says. “It means your retina is so healthy you’re able to see it, so it’s a good thing.”

When should I worry about eye floaters?

Occasionally, a floater may be a sign of a more serious condition. A sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light may indicate a retinal tear. This can happen when the vitreous gel breaks down, causing floaters and pulling on the retina.

“This pulling can lead to a retinal tear, which requires laser surgery to correct,” Dr. Thornton says. “An untreated retinal tear may also lead to a retinal detachment.” 

It’s vital to treat a retinal detachment as quickly as possible to retain your vision.

Living with eye floaters

Although they are common as we age, let your eye doctor know if you are experiencing eye floaters. Maintaining regular eye exams is always a good idea, but especially important if you notice an increase in new floaters, flashes or significant vision changes. 

If you have certain medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis or have had cataract surgery, be sure to notify your doctor of any vision changes or problems.

A complete evaluation may include:

• Vision exam.
• Pupil exam.
• Eye movement exam.
• Intraocular pressure measurement.
• Slit-lamp microscope exam.
• Vitreous and retinal examination with pupil dilation.