Eye Conditions

Floaters

Floaters retain this name due to the fact that many people notice dark dots, lines or particles in their vision that move around as though floating in the eye. Floaters cast shadows on the retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. The retina then sends visual signals to the brain, resulting in an image.

Floaters come and go with eye movements, such as blinking. They follow eye movements, but lag behind and float to a halt a few seconds after the eyes stop moving. These images are most obvious when looking at a bright, uniform field of vision, such as a white wall or a clear sky. People may experience one or several floaters in one eye or both. Floaters are not the same as the spots you see after looking at intense light such as from a camera's flash.

Signs and Symptoms

• Dark dots, lines or particles in field of vision that
  appear to float by

Treatments and Prevention

• Varies with cause of floaters
  

UIC Specialists
Any Retina Service Physician
Any Comprehensive Ophthalmology Service Physician

Treatment Clinic/Service
Retina Service
Comprehensive Ophthalmology Service

Eye Facts Article
Floaters

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.