Vitreous Floaters

Some people see spots or clumps moving in front of their eyes. We call these "vitreous floaters." The vitreous humor is the jelly-like substance that fills the cavity of the eye. These spots float about and form shadows on the retina in the back of the eye. Sometimes other conditions involving the vitreous gel can cause the sensation of flashes of light. Vitreous floaters and flashes are normally harmless, however they may be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a hemorrhage, retinal tear or a retinal detachment. Only an examination by your ophthalmologist can determine which flashes or floaters are serious.
Index of topics:

Acute Glaucoma Macular Degeneration
After Cataract Narrow Angle Glaucoma
Blepharitis Permanent Eyeliner
Blunt Trauma Post-Operative Care
Chalazion Presbyopia
Chemical Burns Pterygium
Chronic Glaucoma Ptosis
Conjunctivitis Radial Keratotomy
Corneal Transplants Retinal Detachment
Diabetic Retinopathy Rigid (Hard) Contact Lenses
Dry Eye Syndrome (Dry Eyes) Secondary Implants
Entropion and Ectropion Secondary Membrane
Excimer Laser Soft Contact Lenses
Foreign Body Subconjunctival Hemorrhage
Introduction to Contact Lenses Sunglasses
Laser Surgery Vitreous Floaters
Lens Implants Warning Signs
Low Pressure Glaucoma What is a Cataract