What are floaters in my vision?

Oh, squiggly line in my eye fluid.
I see you there, lurking on the periphery of my vision.
But when I try to look at you, you scurry away.
Are you shy, squiggly line?
Why, only when I ignore you, do you return to the center of my eye?
Oh, squiggly line, it's alright, you are forgiven.
- Stewie Griffin, 2007, "The Tan Aqautic"

We’ve all noticed them before: little squiggly lines floating in our vision that seem to always run away whenever you try to look at them. While commonly referred to as “floaters”, they are actually little strands broken off of the vitreous, which is the jelly-like substance that fills the eye. And although floaters are generally harmless, understanding what they are and when you should be concerned is crucial for maintaining optimal eye health. Let’s explore what vitreous floaters are, their causes, and when floaters can potentially be a sign of an ocular emergency.

What Are Vitreous Floaters?

The inside of your eye is not hollow or filled with air like a balloon. Instead, it is filled with a jelly-like substance called the vitreous which fills the space between the lens and the retina in the back of the eye. Over time, the vitreous shrinks, liquifies, and little strands and particles break off. These particles cast shadows on the retina, which result in the perception of floaters in your vision. Floaters often appear as black or gray specks, strings, or cobweb-like shapes that seem to move around when you try to look directly at them. They are more noticeable when you gaze at a plain, bright background, such as a clear sky or a white wall.

When Should You Be Concerned?

In most cases, vitreous floaters are harmless and do not require immediate medical attention. However, there are certain instances when you should consider consulting an optometrist to make sure you’re not having a retinal detachment, which is an actual emergency for the vision.

Sudden Onset and/or Increase of Floaters
Flashes of Light, like lightning bolts or camera flashes
Shadow or Veil Over the Vision
Loss of side vision (peripheral vision)

If you suddenly notice a significant increase in the number or size of floaters, accompanied by flashes of light or a shadow-like curtain obstructing your vision, it could indicate a retinal tear or detachment. This is an emergency for the vision, and prompt evaluation by an optometrist is essential in such cases to prevent potential vision loss and blindness.

A sudden large floater or spider web over the vision could be a sign of a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), which should not be confused with a retinal detachment. The vitreous inside the eye is not free-floating; instead, it is anchored to the back of the eye in certain areas. As that vitreous shrinks, it pulls away from the back of the eye leading to a PVD. The areas where the vitreous was anchored are thicker and can lead to a large floater in the vision. A PVD in itself is not worrisome, but as the PVD pulls the anchor away, it can either come away cleanly or pull some tissue with it, which can then lead to a retinal detachment.

Vitreous floaters are a common occurrence and, in most cases, are harmless. However, it is essential to be aware of when to seek professional evaluation. Sudden changes in floaters, persistent floaters that impair your daily life, or the presence of associated symptoms should prompt a visit to an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Remember, regular eye exams are crucial for monitoring your eye health and detecting any potential issues early on. Our doctors at Sight To See Eyecare & Eyewear can assess your condition, provide appropriate guidance, and determine whether further intervention is necessary. If you have any concerns about vitreous floaters or other aspects of your eye health, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment. Your vision is precious, and the world is a sight to see.