Are eye floaters dangerous?

Lester

The term "floaters" is used to describe a small speck or group of specks that move across the field of vision. Floaters can take the shape of little dots, clouds or spider webs; they are usually most obvious when you look at a solid-color background, such as a blue sky or a white wall. Moving your head back and forth also will often send floaters drifting across your field of view.

The source of floaters are clumps of cells floating in the vitreous gel, the material that fills the center of the eye and that is attached to the optic nerve and other areas of the retina. As people age, the vitreous gel gradually loosens its attachment to the optic nerve. Some of the cells that formed the attachment are then released into the vitreous gel, and you can see them floating in your eyes. In addition to older people, floaters are most common in people who are nearsighted or who've undergone eye surgery.

Although specks floating in the eye may seem harmless, you should see your ophthalmologist right away if you experience a sudden, new onset of floaters. When the vitreous gel pulls away from the optic nerve (causing the onset of floaters), a careful eye exam is required to rule out holes or tears in the retina. Retinal holes or tears can lead to retinal detachment, a serious condition that can threaten vision. Prompt examination by an ophthalmologist can help prevent this. If a retinal hole or tear is discovered, laser surgery can be used to seal the hole. The earlier the problem is detected, the greater the chance of the surgery succeeding.

You should also see an eye doctor immediately if you experience flashes of light or loss of vision along with a surge in new floaters. These are also signs of a possible retinal hole or retinal detachment.