What Are Eye Floaters? When to Watch and When to See an Eye Doctor

June 6, 2025

Have you ever noticed tiny specks, threads, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision, especially when looking at a bright surface like the sky or a computer screen? These visual disturbances are known as eye floaters, and while they're often harmless, in some cases, they may signal a more serious eye condition.
 

What Are Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are small clumps of collagen or cells inside the vitreous - the gel-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. These particles cast shadows on the retina, which appear as floaters in your line of sight. You can't look directly at them, and they often move when your eyes move.
 

Floaters can take various shapes:

• Specks

• Dots

• Threads

• Cobwebs
   

They’re more noticeable against light-colored backgrounds and often fade from view as your brain learns to ignore them over time.
 

When Are Eye Floaters Normal?

Floaters are a normal part of the aging process. As we get older, the vitreous gel inside the eye starts to shrink and become more liquid, causing the collagen fibers within to clump together. This is common in people over the age of 50 and is usually not a cause for concern - especially if:

• The floaters are stable and don't increase suddenly

• They aren't accompanied by flashes of light

• There's no change in your peripheral vision
   

When to See an Eye Doctor

While most floaters are benign, certain symptoms may indicate a more serious problem that requires prompt medical attention. You should schedule an eye exam immediately if you experience:

• A sudden increase in floaters

• Flashes of light in your vision

• A shadow or curtain effect over your peripheral vision

• Any loss of visual acuity
   

These symptoms could signal a Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) or, in more serious cases, a retinal tear or detachment.
 

What is Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)?

PVD occurs when the vitreous gel pulls away from the retina as it shrinks. It’s a common condition that usually doesn't cause permanent damage. However, because PVD can sometimes lead to retinal tears, it’s essential to have a comprehensive eye exam to rule out complications. Your eye doctor can diagnose PVD with a dilated eye exam and imaging tests to ensure the retina is still intact.
 

Treatment Options for Floaters

In most cases, no treatment is necessary for floaters, and they tend to become less noticeable over time. However, if floaters significantly interfere with vision or daily activities, treatment options may include:

• Vitrectomy: A surgical procedure that removes the vitreous gel and replaces it with a saline solution. This is typically reserved for severe cases due to the risk of complications.

• Laser Vitreolysis: A laser treatment that breaks up floaters, making them less visible. Not all patients are candidates, and this treatment is less commonly used.
   

Your eye doctor will discuss these options with you if floaters are affecting your quality of life.
 

Schedule Your Eye Exam Today

Floaters are a common and usually harmless part of aging, but sudden changes in their appearance could point to serious retinal issues. Knowing when to monitor and when to seek care is crucial to protecting your long-term vision.
 

If you're experiencing new or worsening floaters, flashes of light, or changes in your vision, contact Northwest Eye Center for advanced diagnostic care. Visit our office in Barrington or Crystal Lake, Illinois. Please call (847) 382-3640 or (815) 455-4222 to book an appointment today.