Those black spots, squiggly lines, and drifting cobweb shapes in your visual field are called floaters. Some patients are concerned about them, but they're usually harmless. Still, a big increase in the number of floaters could indicate a more serious problem.

What Are Floaters?

The dark spots you're seeing are caused by a shadow cast onto your retina. Over time, proteins in the gel-like fluid that fills the eye cavity (the vitreous) begin to clump together as you age and form tiny thread-like shapes. When incoming light hits those clumps, it casts a shadow onto your retina, causing you to perceive it as a floater.

Next time you notice a floater, try shifting your focus to something in your periphery. The quick eye movement will often cause the floater to drift out of your central vision.

What Causes Floaters?

The primary cause of eye floaters is aging. However, other conditions can cause an increase in floaters, including vitreous detachment, eye injuries, eye infections, bleeding within the eye, retinal detachment, retinal tearing, uveitis, and high myopia (nearsightedness).

Are Floaters Normal?

Seeing occasional floaters is normal and usually nothing more than a temporary annoyance. But a sudden increase in floaters can indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate attention. Floaters accompanied by flashes of light warrant an urgent call to your eye doctor, because they could indicate a detached retina, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated quickly.

Eye Exams in Kettering

If you notice new floaters, a large number of floaters that don't resolve, or floaters accompanied by flashes of light, we can help. Through a retinal or dilated eye exam, we'll evaluate the cause of your floaters and recommend a treatment plan if necessary.

At Dayton Optometric Center in Kettering, Ohio, your eye health is our top focus. To schedule your eye exam, call us today at (937) 228-2020.