Are Eye Floaters Normal? When to Be Concerned

Have you ever noticed small specks, squiggly lines, or cobweb-like shadows drifting across your vision, especially when looking at a bright sky or white wall? These are known as eye floaters, a common visual phenomenon experienced by many people at some point in their lives. But are they normal? And when should you be concerned?

What Are Eye Floaters?

Eye floaters are tiny clumps or strands of collagen that form inside the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. As light enters your eye, it casts shadows from these clumps onto your retina, creating the illusion of floating objects in your field of vision. They tend to move as your eyes move and often drift away when you try to look directly at them.

Are Eye Floaters Normal?

In many cases, yes. Eye floaters are a natural part of the aging process. As we get older, the vitreous begins to shrink and liquefy, a process called vitreous syneresis. This causes the collagen fibers within it to clump together and cast shadows on the retina. Most people begin to notice floaters in their 40s or 50s, and they often become more common with age. Floaters that remain stable and don't interfere with vision are usually harmless.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While most floaters are benign, a sudden increase in their number or changes in their appearance can indicate a more serious issue. You should schedule an eye exam immediately if you experience:
 

• A sudden shower of new floaters

• Flashes of light in one or both eyes

• A dark curtain or shadow moving across your vision

• Blurred or decreased vision along with floaters

These symptoms could be signs of a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. Other possible causes of increased floaters include vitreous hemorrhage, inflammation inside the eye (uveitis), or trauma. In some cases, floaters may also be linked to diabetic retinopathy, ocular tumors, or posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). Identifying the root cause early through a comprehensive eye exam is crucial to preserving your vision.

Why Routine Eye Exams Are Essential

Even if your floaters seem harmless, regular comprehensive eye exams are vital for maintaining your eye health. Many serious conditions that cause floaters don’t show symptoms until damage has already occurred. During an exam, your optometrist can detect early warning signs of retinal problems, monitor the health of your vitreous, and evaluate the overall condition of your eyes. At Paradise Canyon Eye Care, we use advanced diagnostic technology to thoroughly examine your eyes, offering peace of mind and early intervention when necessary.

Protect Your Vision at Paradise Canyon Eye

Eye floaters are often a normal part of aging, but it’s important to know when they could signal something more serious. If you’ve noticed new or worsening floaters, flashes of light, or changes in your vision, don’t wait to get your eyes checked. Early detection and treatment are key to protecting your vision.

Concerned about eye floaters? Contact Paradise Canyon Eye Care to schedule a thorough eye exam and protect your vision. Visit our office in St. George, Utah, or call (435) 291-5093 to book an appointment today. 

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