Floaters

What are floaters?

Floaters are small grayish or transparent spots or blobs that float across the field of vision from time to time. Floaters move around with eye movements, and are most commonly noticed against plain backgrounds, such as a white page or a blank wall. Floaters can also appear as fine threads, webs, and clumps.

What causes floaters?

Floaters are caused by small specks or clumps that form within the fluid of the eye. When light enters the eye, these clumps cast a shadow onto the retina. The floater that you notice is the shadow that is cast onto the retina.

What problems might a person with floaters experience?

Floaters are an annoying phenomenon that get in the way. Mostly they are harmless. In a small number of cases, floaters can be a sign of more serious damage that is taking place.

An example of floaters in the field of view - blurry, partially transparent, and moving around in the field of view.

Who is at risk of developing floaters

Floaters can occur in anyone, at any time.

How will I know if I have floaters?

Floaters appear on occasions in the visual field

What should I do if I think I might have floaters?

You should arrange for an eye examination with your local Optometrist or Ophthalmologist to rule out more serious underlying problems. You should seek immediate attention if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• An increase in the number of floaters noticed
• Decrease in vision in one or both eyes
• Flashes or sparkles in vision

Your Optometrist will advise you if you have floaters, and whether or not they are potentially dangerous to your vision

How am I tested for floaters?

Your Optometrist will carefully examine the inside of your eyes, noting the extent of any floaters and stuff. And will ensure that the retina is free from defects.

Is treatment required for floaters?

No. Floaters are annoying. But no treatment is required (provided there are no underlying problems).

Can floaters be cured?

No. There is no treatment available to make floaters go away. Often, people find that the brain learns to ignore floaters after some time.