Experts Share What To Do About 'Floaters' And Why They Shouldn't Be Ignored

If you have ever found yourself staring off into the distance and noticed black or gray squiggles drifting across your vision, then you might be familiar with eye 'floaters'.

You may have thought it was just a speck of dust or that your eyes had lost focus for a moment, but now experts have shared what these floaters really are and whether there is any reason to be concerned about them.

What exactly are 'floaters'?

It may sound like an odd term, but WebMD has an entire page dedicated to eye floaters, so it’s safe to say they are a real phenomenon.

They are called 'floaters' because they move around inside your eye and seem to float away when you try to look directly at them.

They can look like little strings, webs, rings, or dots, but they usually do not affect your overall vision.

You have probably noticed them before, as they are quite common.

In fact, according to MedEye Associates, about seven out of 10 people experience them at some point in their lives.

Floaters can show up as grey or black lines Getty Stock Photo

What causes eye floaters?

According to WebMD, in a section reviewed by dermatologist Zilpah Sheikh, MD, floaters are not just bits of dust or dirt.

Instead, they are made of tiny flecks of collagen that are part of a gel-like substance known as the vitreous, which is located at the back of your eye.

As time goes by, the protein fibers that make up the vitreous can shrink and clump together, casting shadows on the retina. 

This process is what creates those floaters you see.

While this usually happens to people aged between 50 and 75, it can actually occur at any age.

You are also more likely to notice floaters if you are nearsighted or if you have had cataract surgery.

Should I be concerned about eye floaters?

In most cases, floaters should not interfere with your vision or cause any problems. However, they can sometimes signal that something more serious is happening.

In rare instances, floaters can be caused by conditions such as:

• Eye disease
• Eye injury
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Crystal-like deposits forming in the vitreous
• Eye tumors

There are also serious eye disorders that have been associated with floaters, according to WebMD, including:

• Detached retina
• Torn retina
• Bleeding within the vitreous
• Inflammation in the vitreous or retina due to an infection or autoimmune condition
• Eye tumors

Floaters could be caused by tumors or bleeding Getty Stock Photo

When should I see a doctor?

There are certain situations where having floaters should prompt a visit to the doctor, such as if the floaters are new, have changed significantly, or feel more noticeable than before.

Another instance to be aware of is when you see flashes in your vision. This can happen if the vitreous pulls away from the retina. If you notice flashes, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

It is also recommended to reach out to a doctor if you experience floaters alongside other symptoms, such as blurred side or central vision, a dark shadow over part of your vision, or eye pain.

Can I get rid of eye floaters myself?

If your floaters are mild and do not seem to be linked to any other eye issues, you may be able to manage them on your own. Experts have shared a few tips on how to do this effectively.

• Try moving the floaters out of your line of vision by shifting your eyes and looking up and down. This can help move the fluid in your eyes and change their position.
• Maintain a healthy diet that includes foods rich in vitamin A, which supports eye health.
• Consider taking eye health supplements, such as Vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc, but be sure to consult a doctor before starting any new supplements.
• Do simple eye exercises, like slowly moving your eyes in circles. This can improve blood circulation in your eyes and reduce the number of floaters you may notice.
• Quit smoking, as it can improve blood circulation and support overall eye health.
• Avoid straining your eyes by taking breaks from looking at screens for extended periods.
• Use low lighting and wear sunglasses to help filter out bright light and reduce strain.

For mild cases, there are also treatments available, such as laser therapy or a vitrectomy. A vitrectomy involves removing the vitreous and replacing it with a salt solution or an oil or gas bubble.