Have you ever experienced seeing “flies” in your vision that aren’t actually there? These “flies” are more commonly known as floaters.

What are floaters?

Floaters are specks, spots, or cobweb-like shapes that appear to float in your field of vision. They can be black or gray and often show up when looking at a bright background, such as a blue sky or white wall.

Floaters are actually tiny clumps of cells or strings of tissue that float in the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. As you age, the vitreous begins to shrink, causing it to pull away from the retina.

This detachment can cause floaters to appear in your vision.

When should you be concerned?

Most floaters are harmless and are simply a part of the aging process. However, if you suddenly notice an increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your vision, it could be a sign of a more serious condition called a retinal detachment.

This is when the retina, the thin layer of tissue that lines the back of your eye, pulls away from its normal position. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention to prevent permanent vision loss.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see an eye doctor immediately.

What are the risk factors?

There are several risk factors that can increase your likelihood of developing floaters. These include:.

Age: Floaters are more common as you get older.
Eye injury or surgery: If you have had eye surgery or an injury, you may be more likely to develop floaters.
Myopia: People who are nearsighted are more likely to develop floaters.
Diabetes: People with diabetes are more at risk for developing eye conditions, including floaters.

How are floaters treated?

In most cases, floaters do not require treatment and will eventually fade away on their own. However, if your floaters interfere with your vision, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove them.

This procedure is called a vitrectomy and involves removing the vitreous and replacing it with a saline solution.

Preventing floaters

While you can’t completely prevent floaters from developing, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include:.

Protecting your eyes: Wear protective glasses or goggles when engaging in activities that could result in eye injuries, such as sports or construction work.
Eating a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain eye health.
Managing health conditions: If you have diabetes or other health conditions that can affect your eyes, it’s important to manage them properly.

Conclusion

Floaters are a common occurrence that usually don’t require treatment.

However, if you notice a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your vision, it could be a sign of a more serious condition and requires immediate medical attention. Speak with your eye doctor if you have any concerns or questions about floaters.