Those filaments in your vision: when should you worry? A specialist answers

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Those Filaments in Your Vision: When Should You Worry? A Specialist Answers

Have you ever noticed tiny threads, cobweb-like lines, or shadowy specks drifting across your vision — especially when looking at a bright sky or a white wall?

You’re not alone. These strange little shapes are commonly known as floaters, and while they’re usually harmless, there are some cases where they can signal a more serious issue.

We spoke with an eye specialist to break down exactly what floaters are, when to ignore them, and when it’s time to seek medical help.

👁️ What Are Those Filaments in Your Vision?

Floaters are small clumps of collagen or cellular debris that form in the vitreous — the clear, gel-like substance inside your eyeball. As we age, the vitreous becomes more liquid, and these clumps can cast shadows on your retina, appearing as squiggly lines, threads, or spots.

They’re especially noticeable when looking at bright, blank backgrounds like a computer screen, clear sky, or white paper.

✅ When Floaters Are Normal

In most cases, floaters are:

A natural part of aging (common after age 40)
More frequent if you’re nearsighted
Often stable or gradually fade over time
Harmless and don’t require treatment

Many people experience them occasionally and simply learn to ignore them — your brain often adapts and filters them out of your perception over time.

🚨 When You Should Worry: Red Flags to Watch For

While most floaters are benign, certain symptoms can indicate a more serious eye condition. You should contact an eye doctor immediately if you notice:

1. A Sudden Increase in Floaters

Seeing dozens appear at once, like a “shower” of black dots

2. Flashes of Light

Brief flickers or lightning-like streaks, especially in peripheral vision

3. Loss of Peripheral Vision

A curtain or shadow moving over your field of vision

4. Blurred Vision or Distortion

Objects appear warped, hazy, or hard to focus on

These symptoms may point to:

Retinal tear or detachment (a medical emergency)
Posterior vitreous detachment (common with age, but should still be monitored)
Bleeding or inflammation inside the eye
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