👁️ What Are Eye Floaters? Here’s What to Do If You Start Seeing Them

Seeing Spots or Shadows? You’re Not Alone

Have you ever looked up at the bright sky or stared at a white wall, only to notice strange little squiggly lines, floating dots, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision? If yes, don’t panic—you’ve likely experienced eye floaters.

While they can be annoying (and occasionally alarming), floaters are a common part of aging, and most of the time, they’re harmless. But when they appear suddenly or in large numbers, they may signal a more serious issue. Let’s break down what eye floaters are, what causes them, and when it’s time to see a doctor.

🔍 What Exactly Are Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are tiny shadows cast on your retina by small clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous—the clear, jelly-like substance that fills the inside of your eye.

These floaters drift across your vision when the vitreous shifts. They appear as:

• Transparent spots or threads
• Floating “spiders” or “worms”
• Cloudy or dark shapes that move when you try to look directly at them

They’re more visible when you’re looking at something bright, like the sky, a computer screen, or a white piece of paper.

👁️ What Causes Eye Floaters?

1. Natural Aging

The most common cause of floaters is vitreous degeneration, which naturally happens as you age (typically over 50). The vitreous becomes more liquid and shrinks, pulling away from the retina and forming floaters.

2. Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)

This is when the vitreous separates completely from the retina, often causing a sudden burst of floaters. It’s usually harmless, but needs to be monitored by an eye doctor.

3. Nearsightedness (Myopia)

People with severe myopia are more likely to experience floaters earlier due to the longer shape of their eyeballs, which stresses the vitreous.

4. Eye Trauma or Injury

A hit to the eye can disturb the vitreous, causing floaters to form.

5. Eye Inflammation (Uveitis)

Inflammation inside the eye can cause the release of debris into the vitreous, creating floaters.

6. Eye Surgery or Injections

Certain procedures, like cataract surgery or retinal injections, may also trigger floaters temporarily.

⚠️ When Should You Be Concerned?

Most floaters are harmless and fade with time. However, you should seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:

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