What are floaters?
Seeing black or blurry dots in your vision, also known as floaters, is very common. They may appear as dark or transparent, and they tend to drift or "float" around when you try to focus on them. Usually, they are a condition not to worry about, however, if you notice an increase in new floaters, especially with flashing lights, it could be an indication of something more serious – in this case contact your trusted Spec-Savers Optometrist straight away.
Floaters vs flashes
Floaters are dots, circles, clouds, cobwebs, lines or other shapes that look grey, white or are see-through may be classed as floaters. These can move or stay in one place and are easiest to spot when you look at a plain background like a blue sky or a blank white wall. They are usually small and most of the time they quickly move out of your visual field.
Flashes of light in the eye can appear as brief, sudden flashes or streaks of light in your peripheral vision. They may resemble lightning bolts or fireworks and can occur on their own or alongside floaters. These occur when the vitreous gel of the eye tugs, bumps or rubs against the retina. Flashes are sometimes accompanied by floaters.
Floaters symptoms
The symptoms of eye floaters can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:
- Spots or specks: Black or translucent dots or strands in your vision
- Lines or threads: Some floaters may appear as thin, squiggly lines or threads that move with your eye movements
- Flashes of light: Sometimes, flashes of light may accompany floaters, especially when you move your eyes quickly or suddenly
- Temporary vision changes: While floaters themselves do not typically cause vision loss, they can temporarily obstruct your vision or make it difficult to see clearly, especially if they are large or numerous.
It's essential to distinguish between harmless floaters and more serious conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as retinal detachment or retinal tears. If you experience a sudden onset of floaters, especially accompanied by flashes of light, dark "curtains" or shadows in your vision, or a sudden decrease in vision, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention from an eye care professional.
Eye floaters treatment
Generally, longstanding and unchanging floaters are harmless, but will always be noted by your trusted Spec-Savers optometrist during your eyesight appointment. During your examination, your Spec-Savers optometrist will be able to see any significant floaters in the vitreous humour of the eye and will record and make a note of these so that changes can be monitored.
If you see many black dots in your eye or have many floaters that impact the quality of your vision, you could be referred to an ophthalmologist to see if further treatment would benefit.
