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Seeing small spots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision can be unsettling. These visual disturbances (commonly known as eye floaters) are very common and, in most cases, harmless. However, there are times when floaters may signal a more serious eye condition that requires prompt attention. Understanding when eye floaters are normal and when they’re a cause for concern can help protect your long-term vision.

What Are Eye Floaters?

 

Eye floaters are tiny clumps of collagen or cellular debris that form inside the vitreous, the gel-like substance filling the inside of the eye. As light enters the eye, these particles cast shadows on the retina, making them appear as moving shapes in your field of vision. Floaters often become more noticeable when looking at bright, plain backgrounds such as the sky, a white wall, or a computer screen. They tend to move when your eyes move and may drift out of sight when you try to focus directly on them.

Are Eye Floaters Normal?

 

Yes, eye floaters are a normal part of aging. As we get older, the vitreous gradually shrinks and becomes more liquid, allowing tiny fibers to clump together. Many people begin noticing floaters in their 40s or 50s, and they often become less noticeable over time as the brain learns to ignore them. Occasional floaters that appear slowly and do not interfere with vision are usually not a cause for concern.

When Should I Be Concerned About Eye Floaters?

 

While most floaters are benign, certain changes should never be ignored. You should seek immediate eye care if you experience a sudden increase in the number of floaters, especially if they appear all at once. New floaters accompanied by flashes of light, blurred vision, or a shadow or curtain moving across your vision can indicate a retinal tear or retinal detachment - both of which are medical emergencies.

You should also be concerned if floaters appear after an eye injury or surgery, or if they are associated with eye pain or redness. In these cases, floaters may be linked to inflammation, bleeding in the eye, or other serious conditions that require prompt treatment.

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Important

 

Even if your floaters seem mild, regular eye exams play a critical role in monitoring eye health. An eye exam can determine whether floaters are harmless or a sign of an underlying condition. Early detection allows for timely treatment and helps preserve your vision.

Take the Next Step at Super Optical Express

 

Eye floaters are usually a normal and harmless part of aging, but sudden changes should never be ignored. A rapid increase in floaters, flashes of light, vision loss, or shadows in your vision are warning signs that require immediate professional care. Paying attention to these symptoms and scheduling regular eye exams are key steps in protecting your eyesight.

If you’ve noticed new or worsening eye floaters, contact Super Optical Express to get expert advice and personalized treatment. Visit our office in Gainesville, Florida, or call (352) 702-9700 today. ​​​​​​​