Floaters are small, shadowy shapes that appear to float in front of the eyes. They are usually seen when looking at a plain, light-colored background and tend to move when the eye moves. While floaters can be annoying, they are usually benign and do not pose a threat to vision.
Floaters are caused by small pieces of debris that are floating in the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye. These bits of debris cast shadows on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, which are then seen as floaters. Floaters are more common in people who are nearsighted or who have had cataract surgery, as well as in those who are over the age of 50.
While floaters are generally harmless, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional if you experience a sudden onset of floaters or if you notice any flashes of light in your vision. These could be signs of a more serious underlying condition, such as a retinal detachment or vitreous detachment, which can cause vision loss if left untreated.
In most cases, floaters can be managed through simple lifestyle changes, such as taking breaks from activities that require sustained use of the eyes, such as reading or computer work. If floaters are causing significant discomfort or are affecting your vision, a healthcare professional may recommend treatment options, such as laser therapy or surgery.
In conclusion, floaters are small, shadowy shapes that can appear in your field of vision. While they are usually benign, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional if you experience a sudden onset of floaters or if you notice any flashes of light in your vision. Treatment options are available to help manage floaters and protect your vision.