Floaters appear as small specks or clouds that move across the line of vision. Patients might notice them when staring at a plain background such as an empty wall or blue sky. These visual disturbances, which not only appear as dots or clouds but sometimes as lines, circles, or cobwebs, are really small clumps of cells inside the vitreous (the clear fluid that fills the eye’s interior). While it may appear that the objects are in front of the eye, they are actually floating inside it.
As people age, the vitreous can thicken and form clumps inside the eye. However, floaters may also be a symptom of a retinal tear, a serious problem for which the only treatment is surgery. Most floaters, however, are harmless and fade after some time. Either way, it is best to consult an ophthalmologist or retina specialist to ensure there is no retinal damage.