Vision conditions
Retina Issues: Floaters
Floaters appear as small spots, threads, or shadowy shapes that move across your vision. They are usually harmless but can sometimes signal changes in the retina that need prompt attention. An eye examination can help determine whether they are age‑related or require treatment.
What happens when you see Floaters
Understanding vitreous changes
Inside your eye is a clear, gel‑like substance called the vitreous. With age, the gel becomes more fluid and may pull away slightly from the retina — creating tiny clumps that cast shadows on your vision. Most floaters are due to these natural changes, but occasionally they may indicate retinal tears or bleeding that need urgent care.
Adults over 50 — Common occurrence
More than 50% of people over the age of 50 experience vitreous floaters as part of normal ageing.
Retinal tear risk — 1 in 10 with sudden onset
About 1 in 10 people who experience a sudden increase in floaters or flashes may have a retinal tear that requires prompt assessment.
Signs that need professional attention
When to seek an eye evaluation
Recognizing the Symptoms of Floaters
- Sudden increase in floaters or new flashes of light
- Shadows or a curtain effect in your side vision
- Blurred or distorted central vision
- Any combination of floaters and vision loss
Floaters are common, but some changes may signal a problem. Seek an eye assessment if you notice:
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Managing floaters safely
Options after professional evaluation
Most floaters do not require treatment and can be monitored during routine eye checks. However, if a retinal tear, bleeding, or detachment is detected, your ophthalmologist may advise:
Clarifying Your Concerns
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that eye-related conditions can be overwhelming. Here are honest, transparent answers to the questions we hear most often from our patients.
Floaters are small shapes or spots that drift across your vision, often seen when looking at bright surfaces. They are usually caused by tiny clumps in the vitreous gel inside the eye and are common with age.
Most floaters are harmless and do not require treatment. However, a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or loss of vision could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which needs prompt medical attention.
Your ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye exam, including a dilated retinal check, to determine whether floaters are harmless or if there are any retinal complications.
Treatment is usually not needed for harmless floaters. If complications are detected, options may include laser treatment to seal small retinal tears or vitrectomy for severe, vision-obscuring floaters.
Floaters cannot always be prevented, as they are often a natural part of aging or changes in the vitreous gel. Regular eye exams can help detect any complications early.
Routine eye exams are recommended to monitor floaters, especially if they increase in number or are accompanied by flashes of light, sudden vision changes, or shadows.
Medisave cannot be used for routine floater treatment. However, certain procedures like vitrectomy for severe cases may be eligible, depending on your situation.