Eye Floaters: What Are They and Why Do You See Them?

Have you ever noticed tiny specks or strands that seem to float across your field of vision, especially when you look at a bright background or a clear sky? These are called eye floaters, and they're a common phenomenon that most people experience at some point in their lives. While they can be annoying, they are usually harmless and don't require treatment.

What Are Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are actually tiny clumps of gel-like vitreous humor, the clear, jelly-like substance that fills the space between your lens and the retina. As we age, the vitreous humor can shrink and detach from the retina, leaving behind small strands or clumps that cast shadows on the retina. These shadows are what we perceive as floaters.

Why Do You See Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are more noticeable when you look at a bright background because the contrast between the floaters and the background is greater. They also tend to be more noticeable in dim light or when you're looking at a plain surface like a wall or a blank screen. This is because the brain is more likely to pick up on the movement of the floaters when there are fewer visual distractions.

Types of Eye Floaters

There are two main types of eye floaters:

• Vitreous floaters: These are the most common type of floaters, and they are caused by the shrinking and detaching of the vitreous humor.
• Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD): This is a more serious condition that occurs when the vitreous humor completely detaches from the retina. This can cause a sudden increase in the number of floaters, as well as flashes of light and a loss of peripheral vision.

When to See a Doctor

While most eye floaters are harmless, it's important to see an eye doctor if you experience any of the following:

• A sudden increase in the number of floaters
• Flashes of light
• A loss of peripheral vision
• A shadow or curtain in your field of vision

These symptoms could be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent vision loss.

How to Cope With Eye Floaters

If you have eye floaters, there are a few things you can do to cope with them:

• Ignore them: The best way to deal with eye floaters is to simply ignore them. They will usually become less noticeable over time.
• Focus on something else: If you find yourself getting distracted by eye floaters, try focusing on something else, such as a book or a movie.
• Move your eyes: Moving your eyes around can help to dislodge the floaters and make them less noticeable.
• Try eye exercises: There are a number of eye exercises that can help to improve your vision and reduce the appearance of floaters.

Eye floaters are a common visual phenomenon that is usually harmless. However, if you experience any sudden changes in your vision or any of the symptoms listed above, it's important to see an eye doctor as soon as possible.