Floaters or spots in vision
Overview
Floaters are small, dark spots, lines, or cobweb-like shapes that appear to drift across your field of vision. These visual disturbances are typically caused by tiny clumps of cells or protein floating in the clear gel inside your eye.
Common Causes
Floaters are commonly caused by age-related changes in the vitreous gel inside your eye, which naturally becomes more liquid and develops clumps over time. They can also result from eye strain, fatigue, or looking at bright lights for extended periods. Certain lifestyle factors like prolonged screen time, dehydration, or lack of sleep may make existing floaters more noticeable.
Severity Levels
Mild: A few small, occasional floaters that don't interfere with daily activities and remain stable over time. These are usually normal age-related changes that can be safely monitored.
Moderate: More noticeable floaters that sometimes affect vision during reading or detailed tasks, but don't significantly impact overall function. Regular eye exams are recommended to ensure they remain stable.
Severe: Sudden onset of many new floaters, especially when accompanied by flashes of light, vision loss, or a curtain-like shadow in your visual field. This requires immediate medical attention as it may indicate retinal detachment or other serious eye conditions.
Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a sudden increase in floaters, especially if accompanied by flashes of light, a shadow or curtain across your vision, or loss of peripheral vision, as these may indicate a retinal tear or detachment. Also consult an eye doctor if floaters significantly interfere with your daily activities or if you notice any changes in your vision. Regular eye exams are important for monitoring any changes in existing floaters.
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