Many people have experienced the frustration of seeing “floaters” in their vision and wondering what’s going on. One person shares: “I’ve learned about something new today, called ‘floaters?’ I always thought I had something stuck in my eye.” Another adds, “I keep seeing ‘flies’ everywhere, and even though I rub my eye, there’s nothing there. It’s so annoying.” A third says, “I thought I was the only one! I keep thinking there’s a spider or fly, waving my arms like I’m crazy, only to realize it’s just a floater.”
Floaters are surprisingly common and affect about 70% of people. They can appear at any age.
According to the Mayo Clinic, eye floaters are spots in your vision that may look like black or gray specks, strings, or cobwebs. They seem to drift around when you move your eyes and may dart away when you try to look directly at them.
Most floaters are linked to age-related changes. As people age, the jelly-like substance in the eyes (called the vitreous) begins to shrink and liquify. This causes protein fibers to form clumps, which can cast tiny shadows on the retina, those shadows are what you see as floaters.
While floaters are generally harmless, they can be irritating. The NHS states that if floaters have been present for a long time, haven’t gotten worse, and don’t affect your vision, there’s no need for concern.
People who are nearsighted or have had cataract surgery are more likely to experience floaters. However, in rare cases, floaters may be linked to more serious conditions like eye disease, injury, diabetic retinopathy, or even tumors.
If you notice a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a dark curtain or shadow moving across your vision, it could indicate a serious issue with the back of the eye. Blurred vision, eye pain, and floaters after surgery or an injury are also red flags. In such cases, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
For those who find floaters annoying, experts suggest trying to shift the fluid in your eyes by looking up and down, which can help move the floaters out of your field of vision. Additionally, taking supplements like omega-3s, zinc, vitamin A, and fatty acids may improve eye health, along with maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding smoking.
