Floaters in the Vitreous
Floaters in the vitreous are experienced as very small flecks or spots in one’s vision. They occur when the vitreous, a gel-like substance in the eye, breaks up under the influence of age. In most cases, floaters are not serious, but in cases where they are recurring and excessive, it may be necessary to seek professional help, as they might indicate that the vitreous is becoming detached from the retina, or that the retina itself is becoming detached from its correct position. In cases where floaters appear suddenly, or are accompanied with flashes of light, the ophthalmologist will check for these conditions.
Some patients are so uncomfortable with floaters in their vision that the ophthalmologist may consider removing them surgically.
