Floaters is the term given to to tiny bits of "cells" that float about inside the vitreous. Inside the eye between the lens and the retina, the eye is filled with a clear jelly like substance known as vitreous. When born, a persons vitreous is firmly attached to the retina. With advancing age, the vitreous separates (this is called Posterior Vitreous Detachment, or PVD) causing tiny bits of vitreous or cells to float about casting shadows, spots or "spider webs" in a person's vision. These floaters seem suspended in air and are more noticible when reading something with a bright white background such as this web page.

Signs and Symptoms
black spots that float about in the vision
"spider webs" in the vision
flashing lights that are obvious when looking at something with a bright background

Diagnosis
With a dilated fundus exam, the doctor will be able to determine if floaters are of any concern.

Treatment
Unless the floaters are indicative of a more substantial problem such as a retinal tear or detachment, treatment is not usually indicated. If treatment is needed, a vitrectomy (surgical removal of the vitreous) will likely be performed in conjunction with treatment to the related pathology. Treament for floaters alone is almost always not needed because over a period of several weeks to several months, floaters will settle out of the line of sight.

The Retina Eye Center provides this information for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as medical advice. Information published on this website is not intended to replace, supplant, or augment a consultation with an retina professional regarding the viewer's own medical care. The Retina Eye Center disclaims any and all liability for injury or other damages that could result from use of the information obtained from this site.