Several patients have consulted me because of floaters in their line of sight. Descriptions vary: looking like insects, cobwebs, or black dots or lines.

Some patients get really worried and panic When they first notice these. They think it might be an emergency.

What are floaters? Our eyes are filled with vitreous gel. As we age, the vitreous thickens and forms into clumps. They float around inside the eye. We see them as dots or strands because they cast a shadow on our retina (the layer of our eye that sends perceived light into the brain to become visual images). These floaters are mostly benign and are just observed. Some may disappear over time. Treatment with eyedrops is not necessary and surgery is not warranted.

However, not all floaters are ok. They could signal a problem in the retina such as a tear or a detachment. Signs to watch out for are:

- Increasing number of floaters

- A shadow shows up in your peripheral vision

- A curtain appears to be covering your vision, whether from the sides, top or bottom

- Seeing flashes of light

If you begin to experience these signs and symptoms, a dilated fundus examination should be performed to determine if a retina tear or detachment is present so that it can be treated accordingly.

Those at risk for floaters are nearsighted individuals (myopia), those who have had cataract surgery, and patients who had a previous eye inflammation.

If you’re unsure of your eye symptoms, consult your eye doctor today.