Eye floaters, the dark specks that obstruct a person's vision can be quite alarming, particularly for the first time sufferer. Appearing as black or grey specks or as fibrous looking webs, they seem to drift about the eye and are most noticeable when viewing plain backgrounds. Although there may be underlying serious causes for the phenomenon, more likely they represent only a visual nuisance.
Causes
Floaters are apt to occur as the vitreous of the eye transforms its consistency with age. While of a thicker consistency in the young, the substance becomes thinner and more liquid as we age. As it thins, it separates from the retina, microscopic bits of the gel pulling away and floating, appearing as shadows on the retina. These shadows may appear as floaters or light flashes.
Retinal detachment
A more serious cause of floaters is a retinal tear or detachment. While detachments may begin similarly as the more benign floaters, if the number or frequency of floaters increases dramatically, this may signal a more serious condition. Additionally, if the floaters are accompanied by flashes of light or hazy vision, contact an ophthalmologist immediately for a full eye exam for a proper assessment. Retinal detachment can cause permanent vision loss.
