Should I be worried about floating spots in my vision?

Most floaters look like dark specks, clouds, threads, or spider webs moving across your vision. These floaters are pieces of gel or other material floating inside the eye. Most people see them only occasionally and they are harmless.

However, floaters generally increase with age and may be caused by an eye injury or disease. If floaters suddenly or greatly increase in number, this may be a sign of eye disease. This is especially true if flashes of light are present. Sudden increases in floaters with flashes require prompt examination by your ophthalmologist to determine if retinal tears or retinal detachment is present.

James W. Bryan, M.D. F.A.C.S.
Diplomate, American Board of Ophthalmology
Member, South Bay Independent Physicians Medical Group, Inc.