Spots & Floaters
If you occasionally see specks, spots or threadlike strands drifting across your field of vision and the specks move away when you try to look at them, you may have floaters. Almost everyone sees a few spots at one time or another, however, they can occur more frequently and more noticeable as you age. If you notice a sudden change in the number or size of spots, contact your eye physician right away to be sure they are not the result of a more serious problem.
What are floaters?
Floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear jelly-like fluid that fills the inside of your eye. Floaters may look like specks, strands, webs, or other shapes.
What are the symptoms?
Spots or shadowy shapes passing in front of your field of vision or to the side may be associated with floaters. Because they are inside your eye, they move with your eyes when you try to see them. Flashes of light may also occur. Flashes may occur after a blow to the head, often called "seeing stars." Most floaters are normal and rarely cause blindness. If you notice a change in the number and size of floaters, schedule an eye exam immediately. On rare occasions, vitreous detachment can cause small tears or holes in the retina. If untreated, retinal tears or holes can continue to worsen and severe vision loss can result if the retina becomes detached.
What is the treatment?
While spots or floaters are normally not serious and require no treatment, you need to be aware of any sudden changes because they can be symptoms or signs of more serious medical problems as indicated above.
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