---
title: What are eye floaters?
description: "[Eye floaters are small shapes that drift across your vision](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-are-eye-floaters/), especially against bright or plain backgrounds. They are usually harmless and caused by tiny changes in the gel inside the eye. ## What causes floaters With age, the vitreous gel…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/what-are-eye-floaters/"
updated: "2026-01-22"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# What are eye floaters?

[Eye floaters are small shapes that drift across your vision](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-are-eye-floaters/), especially against bright or plain backgrounds. They are usually harmless and caused by tiny changes in the gel inside the eye.

## What causes floaters

With age, the vitreous gel becomes more watery and forms small clumps. These cast shadows on the retina, which you see as spots, strands, or cobwebs.

- Floaters move when you move your eyes and seem to drift away when you try to look at them.
- They are more common in short-sighted people and after cataract surgery.
- Sudden onset may signal a posterior vitreous detachment.
- Most floaters fade into the background as the brain adapts.
- They do not come from the surface of the eye.

## When floaters are a concern

New floaters can occasionally signal a retinal tear or detachment. Prompt examination is important to rule out serious causes.

- Seek urgent help if you notice a sudden shower of floaters or flashing lights.
- A dark curtain or shadow in vision needs immediate emergency assessment.
- Once the retina is confirmed healthy, ongoing monitoring is usually enough.
- In rare severe cases, surgery or laser may be considered to reduce floaters.
- Regular eye checks are recommended if you are highly short-sighted.