11/09/2025
Eye Floaters: What You See vs. What's Actually There
By Dr. Christian (OD)
Floaters are those annoying spots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your vision, especially noticeable when looking at bright backgrounds like a clear sky or white wall. While they appear to float in front of your eyes (as shown in the ocean scene), they're actually inside your eye.
The diagram illustrates several types of floaters and their origins within the eye's vitreous - the clear, gel-like substance that fills the space between your lens and retina. Common types include:
- Fluid pockets- small areas where the vitreous has liquefied
- Vitreous strands- protein fibers that have clumped together
- White blood cell deposits - cellular debris floating in the vitreous
- Retinal tissue fragments - small pieces from retinal tears or bleeding
- Retinal fragments - bits of tissue that have broken away
Most floaters are harmless and result from normal aging as the vitreous gradually shrinks and becomes more liquid. However, a sudden increase in floaters, especially accompanied by flashes of light or vision loss, can signal a retinal tear or detachment requiring immediate medical attention.
While floaters can be bothersome, your brain typically learns to ignore them over time. They're more noticeable when you try to look directly at them, but tend to drift away as your eyes move.
See an Eye doctor!!!
