What Are Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are small dots, specks, strings, or cobweb‑like shapes that drift across your field of vision. They vary in size and appearance, and although they seem to move with your eyes, they often slip away when you try to look at them directly.

Most floaters develop as part of the natural aging process. Inside each eye is the vitreous, a clear, gel‑like substance. Over time, the vitreous becomes more liquified and its microscopic fibers clump together. These clumps cast tiny shadows on the retina—shadows your brain interprets as floaters.

What Are the Symptoms of Eye Floaters?

Common symptoms include:

• Small shapes drifting through your central vision.

• Spots, strings, or dark specks that move when your eyes move.

• Small, dark shapes resembling gnats in the vision.

• Floaters that stand out against bright, plain backgrounds.

• Cobweb‑like strands that appear and disappear from your line of sight.

Almost everyone sees floaters occasionally. However, if your floaters increase suddenly, persist, or occur with flashes of light, contact Marano Eye Care immediately, as these may signal a retinal tear or other urgent condition.

What Causes Eye Floaters?

The most common cause is age‑related changes in the vitreous. As the gel breaks down, it becomes stringy and forms clumps that create floaters.

Other causes include:

• Inflammation inside the eye

• Bleeding in the vitreous

• Retinal tears

• Certain medications

• Eye trauma

Understanding the cause helps determine whether treatment is needed.

Who Is at Risk for Floaters?

Floaters can affect anyone, but your risk increases if you:

• Are age 50 or older

• Are nearsighted

• Have diabetic retinopathy

• Have had complications during cataract surgery

• Experience chronic eye inflammation

• Have a history of eye injury

How Are Floaters Diagnosed?

At Marano Eye Care, diagnosis begins with a review of your medical and ocular history, followed by a comprehensive eye exam. Dilation is performed to fully examine examine the vitreous and retina to identify the source of your floaters and rule out more serious conditions.

How Are Floaters Treated?

Treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause.

Mild Floaters

Most mild floaters require no treatment and may fade or become less noticeable over time.

Significant or Vision‑Impairing Floaters

If floaters interfere with your daily activities, your provider may recommend:

Vitrectomy (Surgical Removal of the Vitreous)

A small incision is made to remove the vitreous gel and replace it with a clear solution that maintains the eye’s shape.

Laser Floater Treatment

A specialized medical laser breaks floaters into smaller, less noticeable fragments.

Find Relief From Eye Floaters

If floaters are affecting your vision or quality of life, the specialists at Marano Eye Care can help. Call your nearest location to speak with a member of our team to schedule your appointment today.