Home > about eyes > Floaters & Retinal Detachment
Eye floaters are little specks of debris floating through the vitreous fluid in the eyeball. They become more noticeable as the vitreous becomes more liquified later as we grow older. Sometimes people may momentarily confuse them with dust or tiny insects floating across in front of the eye. However, they are within the eyeball and are not eliminated by rubbing the front of the eye.
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Floaters against a clear blue sky (simulation)
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Retina Detachment
However, if the floaters start becoming visible in every background, suddenly increase in number and are accompanied by any loss of vision, it is vital that immediate medical advice is sought. This could be an early sign of retinal detachment.
If the retina has become detached or has a hole in it, you will begin to experience flashing lights before your eyes and you will also be aware of numerous floaters. These two symptoms will be accompanied by a loss of vision, so urgent medical advice is necessary. Surgery is required to seal any holes in the retina, or to re-attach the retina to the back of the eyeball. Shortsighted people are more likely candidates of retinal detachment. It may simply occur, or may be the (in some cases delayed) result of sharp head movement (a sudden fall, bunji jumping, whip lash, etc). |