What to Do If You Start Seeing Eye Floaters
Eye floaters are small spots, threads, cobwebs, or shadows that seem to drift across your vision. They’re often caused by normal changes in the eye’s vitreous gel, especially with aging. But new floaters can sometimes signal a retinal tear or retinal detachment, so sudden changes shouldn’t be ignored.
If you suddenly develop floaters
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Arrange an eye examination promptly, particularly if the floaters are new or noticeably more numerous than before.
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Pay attention to flashes of light. Flashes together with new floaters can indicate traction on the retina.
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Watch for a dark curtain or shadow moving across your vision. This is an emergency.
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Don’t assume it’s harmless because there is no pain. Retinal tears and detachments can occur without pain.
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If you have diabetes, significant nearsightedness, a history of eye surgery, or previous retinal problems, be particularly attentive to new visual changes.
🚨 Get emergency eye care immediately if you notice
A sudden shower of floaters, repeated flashes of light, a curtain/shadow over part of your vision, or sudden loss or significant blurring of vision.
These can be symptoms of a retinal tear or retinal detachment, where rapid treatment may be important for preserving vision.
If an eye doctor has examined your new floaters and found no retinal problem, occasional floaters often become less noticeable over time.
