If you’ve ever seen tiny dots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision—especially against a bright background—you’ve

likely experienced eye floaters. These are common and usually harmless, but knowing their causes and warning signs helps protect your vision.

Floaters appear as shadows or translucent shapes that move with your eyes. They form when the vitreous humor—the gel-like fluid

inside the eye—begins to shrink and liquefy with age. This causes microscopic fibers to clump together, casting shadows on the retina.

Other causes include posterior vitreous detachment, eye inflammation, bleeding, retinal tears, or past eye surgery. Most floaters

fade over time, but sudden increases, flashes of light, or vision loss can signal a serious issue like retinal detachment, requiring urgent care.

Eye specialists diagnose floaters through dilated exams, ultrasound, or OCT imaging. Mild cases need no treatment, but severe

ones may be managed with laser therapy or vitrectomy, though these carry risks.

To maintain eye health, schedule regular check-ups, manage chronic conditions, and protect your eyes from strain and injury.

Floaters are usually benign—but if your vision changes suddenly, see a doctor immediately.