You’ve probably seen them before—those little specks, squiggles, or shadowy dots drifting across your field of vision. They’re called eye floaters, and while they’re usually harmless, they can be a little unsettling.
Here are five things you might not know about them:
1. Floaters Are Shadows Cast on Your Retina
Floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous humour—the clear gel that fills your eye. What you’re seeing isn’t the floater itself, but its shadow on your retina.
2. They’re More Common As You Age
As we get older, the vitreous gel begins to shrink and pull away from the retina, a normal part of ageing. That’s why floaters tend to appear more often after age 40.
3. They Can Be Triggered by Eye Movement or Bright Light
Ever notice floaters more when looking at the sky or a bright screen? High contrast backgrounds and rapid eye movement make them more noticeable—but they’re usually always there.
4. Sudden Changes Could Signal a Problem
If you suddenly notice a shower of floaters, flashes of light, or a dark curtain in your vision, this could be a sign of retinal detachment—a serious condition that needs urgent care.
5. They’re Usually Harmless—But Worth Keeping an Eye On
Most floaters are nothing to worry about. But if they increase suddenly or interfere with daily life, it’s best to get your eyes checked by a professional.
Floaters Getting in the Way? Let’s Take a Look.
Our expert team can help you understand what’s going on and make sure your vision stays clear and healthy.
