If you’ve ever noticed tiny specks, threads, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision—especially against a bright sky or white wall—you’ve likely seen eye floaters. These small, shadowy shapes, which can appear as dots, squiggly lines, or strands, move as your eyes move and are most noticeable against plain, bright backgrounds.

In most cases, floaters are harmless, but understanding their causes and knowing when to seek medical attention is important for eye health. The primary cause is age-related changes in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance inside your eye. As we age, it can shrink and form clumps that cast shadows on the retina.

Other causes include posterior vitreous detachment, retinal tears or detachment, inflammation, hemorrhaging, and certain eye surgeries or medications. While most floaters are benign, sudden increases in number, flashes of light, loss of peripheral vision, or eye pain require prompt evaluation. Eye doctors may use dilated exams, ocular ultrasound, or optical coherence tomography (OCT) to check for serious conditions.

Treatment is often unnecessary, as the brain can adapt to ignoring floaters. In severe cases, options include vitrectomy—surgically replacing the vitreous humor—or laser therapy to break up floaters. Maintaining regular eye check-ups, protecting your eyes, and leading a healthy lifestyle help preserve vision. Sudden changes or alarming symptoms should never be ignored, as early detection can prevent serious vision problems.