Understanding Floaters: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Floaters are tiny specks, patches, or threads that move across your vision, resembling shadows or cobwebs. They are more visible when viewed against a bright, plain background, such as a clear sky or white paper. Minimal gel or cell clumps within the vitreous, a gel-like fluid that fills the eye, cause these visual abnormalities. As we age, our vitreous shrinks and changes consistency, resulting in the production of these floaters. While they are normally harmless and go away over time, they can be frightening, especially if they appear unexpectedly. Age-related vitreous changes frequently cause floaters, but they can also result from eye trauma, inflammation, diabetic retinopathy, or certain eye procedures. In certain situations, they might be a sign of more serious disorders, such as retinal tears or detachments, necessitating prompt medical attention. A comprehensive eye examination by anophthalmologist is required to diagnose the cause of floaters and rule out any underlying eye diseases. Seek immediate medical attention if floaters irritate you or cause additional symptoms like flashes of light. In most situations, floaters do not require treatment, but regular monitoring is necessary to ensure eye health.