A sudden increase in floaters can be benign or serious. Careful examination is needed to rule out retinal problems.
Common benign cause
Posterior vitreous detachment occurs when the eye’s gel separates from the retina with age. This often produces a noticeable new floater or ring.
- More frequent in people over middle age or short-sighted
- May be accompanied by brief flashes of light
- Vision is often otherwise clear
- Usually does not need treatment once the retina is confirmed safe
Serious causes
Sometimes new floaters indicate bleeding or tears in the retina. Early detection prevents detachment and permanent damage.
- Sudden “snowstorm” or shower of dark spots
- Floaters with a curtain, shadow, or loss of side vision
- Floaters after eye injury or surgery
- Same-day emergency assessment is recommended
