Have you ever noticed small spots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision—especially when looking at a bright sky or a white screen? These are called eye floaters, and they’re a very common visual experience.
What Are Eye Floaters?
Floaters may look like tiny dots, squiggly lines, or shadowy shapes that seem to move as your eyes move. They often drift away when you try to focus directly on them. While they may appear to be in front of your eye, they’re actually inside it.
Floaters are shadows cast on the retina—the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye that processes what you see.
Why Do Floaters Happen?
Inside your eye is a gel-like substance called the vitreous humor, which fills the space between the lens and the retina. Over time, this gel naturally begins to shrink and change consistency.
As it does, tiny clumps, strands, or pockets can form within the vitreous. When light passes through the eye, these irregularities block or scatter the light, casting small shadows on the retina—what you perceive as floaters.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Floaters are often a normal part of aging, but certain factors can make them more noticeable or more likely to occur:
- Aging (especially after age 50)
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Cataract surgery
- Eye inflammation (uveitis)
- Previous eye injuries
- YAG laser procedures after cataract surgery
Many people over 60 experience floaters, and they often become less noticeable over time as the brain adapts and learns to ignore them.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
Most floaters are harmless and don’t require treatment. However, some symptoms can signal a more serious condition and should be evaluated immediately by an eye care professional:
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters
- Flashes of light in your vision
- A dark curtain or shadow moving across your field of vision
- Sudden loss of peripheral (side) vision
These symptoms could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which requires urgent care to prevent vision loss.
Take Care of Your Vision
Even if your floaters seem minor, it’s important to mention any changes in your vision during your regular eye exams. Monitoring your eye health helps ensure that any potential issues are caught early.
If you notice new floaters or changes in your vision, the team at Bissell Eye Care is here to help evaluate your symptoms and provide guidance.
In the meantime, don’t forget your sunglasses and enjoy time outdoors—just keep an eye on any changes in your vision. For more information contact one of our offices at 724-443-6767 or 724-226-0444.
About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD, is the owner of Bissell Eye Care, proudly serving the Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. Dr. Bissell has received advanced training through the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists, enabling him to help patients living with vision impairment and low vision challenges. With two convenient office locations and evening appointments available, Bissell Eye Care offers comprehensive eye exams for the entire family—starting as young as six months. Our services include ocular disease detection and treatment, prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses, specialty activewear eyewear, contact lenses, and dedicated low vision evaluations for those with significant vision impairment and vision loss. We accept most vision and health insurance plans. To learn more, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown office at 724-443-6767 or our Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.