Eye Floaters

Floaters in the eye are small, translucent specks or strands that drift within the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. These appear as tiny shadows or spots that move with eye movements and are most noticeable against bright backgrounds like clear skies or white walls. They are primarily caused by changes in the vitreous humor due to aging, where the gel becomes more liquid and can develop clumps or strands. While usually harmless, floaters can sometimes signal more serious conditions such as retinal detachment or inflammation. If floaters suddenly increase in number, are accompanied by flashes of light, or lead to vision impairment, it's crucial to promptly consult an ophthalmologist for evaluation to rule out any underlying issues requiring medical attention.