What are spots and floaters?

Spots (often called floaters) are small, semitransparent or cloudy specks or particles within the eye that become noticeable when they fall within the line of sight. They may also appear with flashes of light.

Does everyone have spots?

Almost everyone sees a few spots at one time or another. They can occur more frequently and become more noticeable as you grow older. If you notice a sudden change in the number or size of spots, you should contact your optometric physician right away, so you can be sure they are not the result of a more serious problem.

What causes spots?

The inner part of your eye is made up of a clear, jelly-like fluid known as the vitreous. Occasionally, small flecks of protein and other matter become trapped during the formation of the eye before birth and remain in the vitreous body.

Spots and floaters may also be caused by the deterioration of the eye fluid or its surrounding parts, or by certain injuries or eye diseases.

What do spots look like?

Spots are generally translucent specks of various shapes and sizes. They may also appear as threadlike strands or cobwebs within the eye. Since they are within the eye, they move as the eye moves and seem to dart away when you try to look at them directly.

Can these spots cause blindness?

Most spots are normal and rarely cause blindness. But, spots can be indications of more serious problems, and if you see them, you should have a comprehensive optometric examination to determine the cause.

How are spots detected?

In a comprehensive eye examination, your optometric physician will look into your eyes with special instruments such as a slit lamp (biomicroscope) and an ophthalmoscope. Your optometric physician uses these instruments to examine the health of the inside of your eyes and may also observe the spots within your eyes. This is often done after the doctor puts special drops in your eyes to make the pupils larger (called dilation) to allow a larger view of the inside of your eyes.