However, spots and floaters can also indicate serious retinal problems. We see these floaters as specs, bugs, strings or webs depending on their shape.Īlthough distracting and annoying, these naturally formed spots and floaters rarely cause a loss of vision. As we age, the vitreous begins to become more liquid and loses its gel-like consistency. Then if a sudden collapse of the gel occurs, this can cause the vitreous to separate which causes microscopic particles to "float" within the eye, casting tiny shadows on the retina. During childhood, the vitreous is like jello. Spots and floaters can also be caused by deterioration of the vitreous or the retina as part of the natural aging process. These particles remain in the vitreous throughout life and are occasionally seen as spots or floaters. Often, small flecks of protein or other natural matter become trapped in the vitreous during the formation of the eye before birth. The center of the eye is filled with a clear, jelly-like fluid known as the vitreous humor. Therefore, if you experience new symptoms, you should call the office immediately and have your eyes examined to determine if this is a sight-threatening condition. They can indicate vitreous detachment or a serious eye disorder.īoth flashes and floaters can be harmless symptoms of aging eyes, or they can be indicators of a serious eye disorder such as a torn retina. They usually appear as if someone is shining a flashlight from the side of your eye. Flashes come and go in an instant and normally occur in only one eye at a time. Flashes are bright points of light that literally flash into the field of vision when the eyelids are open or closed. When the spots appear rather fuzzy and seem to be strung together with a web-like thread, they are called floaters. Sometimes one can make them disappear by merely turning the head, moving the eyes, or blinking. Typically, they are seen in the same eye and in the same part of that eye.
Almost everyone has experienced spots floating in his or her field of vision. They can be harmless or indicative of very serious eye problems. These floaters are the sign of a Retinal Tear State of the art technology lets us determine if