General practice·General practice
Floaters in vision
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Floaters are small shapes that drift across your field of vision. They may look like black or grey specks, strings, or cobwebs that move when you move your eyes. Most floaters are harmless and become less noticeable over time.
Key facts
- Floaters are usually caused by tiny pieces of gel inside your eye that clump together and cast a shadow on your retina.
- Most floaters are not a sign of a serious eye problem and may fade or become less bothersome.
- A sudden increase in floaters, especially with flashes of light or loss of side vision, could indicate a retinal tear or detachment and needs urgent medical attention.
Yes, floaters are very common, especially as people get older. Many people experience them at some point in their lives.
Floaters can affect anyone, but they are more common in people over 50, those who are nearsighted (myopic), have had eye surgery or injury, or have diabetes.