Symptoms
Eye Floaters and Flickering
Drifting specks and threads are shadows cast by the vitreous gel, and most people develop them with age. A sudden shower of new floaters, or flashes of light, should be examined the same day.
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What are eye floaters?
Floaters are small shapes – dots, threads or cobwebs – that drift across your field of vision, most noticeable against a bright background. Flickering or flashes of light can sometimes accompany them.
Most floaters are a normal part of the eye's ageing and are harmless. However, a sudden increase in floaters or new flashes of light should always be assessed promptly.
Common signs and symptoms
- Small dots, threads or cobweb shapes that drift
- Shapes that move as your eyes move
- More noticeable against bright or plain backgrounds
- Occasional flashes or flickers of light
- Symptoms in one or both eyes
What causes eye floaters?
Floaters are usually caused by natural age-related changes in the vitreous gel inside the eye. As it becomes more liquid, tiny fibres cast shadows on the retina.
A sudden shower of floaters, flashes of light or a shadow across your vision can indicate a retinal problem and needs urgent assessment.
“Many patients describe the moment afterwards as a quiet shift – simply waking up and seeing the world clearly, without reaching for glasses or lenses.”Dr. Jørn Slot Jørgensen – Founder, Medical Director and CEO of EuroEyes
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Frequently asked questions
Are floaters dangerous?
Most are harmless, but a sudden increase, flashes of light or a shadow needs urgent assessment.
Do floaters go away?
They often become less noticeable over time as the brain adapts, though they rarely disappear entirely.
When should I seek help urgently?
If you suddenly experience many new floaters, flashes of light or a curtain-like shadow in your field of vision, you should see a doctor or contact the emergency department straight away.
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