Retina

Floaters

Shadows in vision from vitreous change

Floaters occur when the eye's
transparent vitreous gel turns cloudy,

casting shadows onto the retina that look like
drifting specks.

Most are natural ageing,
but they can warn of sight-threatening

retinal tears or detachment — accurate diagnosis matters.

Floater causes & main symptoms

Most floaters come from ageing — the vitreous
liquefies naturally —

but symptoms differ by cause.

Simply ageing — or a warning sign?

Ageing & environment (physiological)

Cause

After 40 the vitreous contracts, leaving debris
that casts shadows on the retina. With high myopia,
younger patients can show this too.

Signs

Fly- or thread-like shapes drift on clear sky or white walls.
They follow when you move your eyes
and slowly settle when you stop.

Warning of retinal damage (pathological)

Cause

When a retinal tear ("hole") or detachment begins,
or with inflammation/bleeding
inside the eye.

Signs

Floaters suddenly jump to dozens or more.
Flashes appear even with eyes closed.
A curtain-like dark area covers part of vision.