It can be alarming to experience an eye floater for the first time. These are spots of differing sizes that seem to “float” across your line of sight. While they don’t typically cause disturbances to your vision, you should immediately let your optometrist know if you notice a sudden appearance of new floaters. Here’s what you should know about them.

How Do They Develop?

The average floater forms in response to a natural process that occurs in the eye as you grow older. At the back of your eye is an area known as the vitreous; it consists of fibrous protein strands that eventually shrink with time.

As they become smaller, they form tiny clumps that cause shadows to cross your field of vision. These are the floaters that you see. It’s a common issue that is more likely to occur among individuals over the age of 50.

What Are the Symptoms?

Floaters move around in a haphazard fashion. They might glide slowly, or they may seem swift as they dart around. They can appear as different shapes, including circles, lines, and even cobwebs.

They may present in smaller sizes, or they may have a more structured, larger appearance. Most of the time, they dart out of your line of sight as soon as you try to focus on them. Larger sizes might make it difficult to concentrate on some activities, in which case you should visit your eye doctor.

When Should You Seek Help?

While most floaters are harmless, some may be related to an eye disease or diabetic retinopathy. This is why it’s crucial to visit your eye doctor if you notice a sudden increase in your floaters, see flashes, or develop a change in your vision.

Since floaters are occasionally associated with more serious conditions, it’s important not to delay making an appointment to see your optometrist as soon as possible.

Are you concerned about a sudden increase in floaters? Let the team at Griebenow Eyecare in Clintonville and New London, WI, help. Proudly serving clients throughout Waupaca, Outagamie and Shawano counties since 1979, the family eye care center offers a variety of services, including vision tests and eye exams. They also carry eyeglasses and contact lenses. Call (800) 427-9585 or visit the website to find out more about how they can help or to schedule an appointment online with Dr. Sylte or Dr. Benck.