Floaters

Floaters are tiny specks that appear to drift around in your field of vision. Imagine them as small, semi-transparent particles suspended in the gel-like substance inside your eyeball, known as the vitreous humor. These specks cast shadows on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye, creating the perception of small, moving dots or lines. While they can be annoying, floaters are generally harmless and are a common occurrence as we age.

The vitreous humor, responsible for maintaining the shape of the eye, undergoes changes over time. As we get older, the gel becomes more liquid, and tiny collagen fibres clump together, forming floaters.

These floaters move as your eyes move, but they tend to settle down when your eyes are still. While most floaters are normal and don’t require treatment, it’s essential to monitor any sudden increase in their number or appearance of flashes of light, as these could indicate a more serious issue like a retinal tear or detachment. If you notice any concerning changes in your vision, it’s best to consult your optometrist.