Eye Floaters

Eye floaters are small moving spots that show up in the field of vision. They may appear as black or gray dots, squiggly lines, strings, or cobwebs. They tend to be most noticeable when staring at a solid light-colored background, such as blue sky or white paper. While they can be annoying, they are harmless, and most people learn to ignore them. They normally don’t interfere with vision, and sometimes they diminish over time. Eye floaters occur most often in those between 50 and 75 years of age, especially those who are nearsighted or have had cataract surgery. Once eye floaters develop they don’t go away, but they can improve or change.

As a person ages, a jelly-like substance called vitreous inside the eyes becomes more liquid. When that happens, fibers within the vitreous clump together and form small shadows on the retina, which are seen as eye floaters. Eye floaters usually are harmless, but those who experience a sudden increase in the number of eye floaters along with flashes of light, pain, or a loss of peripheral (side) vision should see a doctor immediately, as the symptoms could be a sign of a more serious condition.

The specialists at UAB Hospital-Callahan Eye use the most advanced technology and are known for working together to treat the full range of both common and complex corneal problems. From cataract and corneal surgeries to highly specialized contact lenses, Callahan features the expertise, experience, and cutting-edge equipment needed to treat the most challenging corneal conditions. Patients come here from around the world and nation because we don’t just treat eye disease – we empower patients to take control of their eye health.

Callahan is the only full-service facility in Alabama specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of the eye and one of only a few worldwide that is entirely devoted to advancements in ophthalmology. That reputation is supported by 17 operating rooms dedicated to eye surgery and the region’s only freestanding 24/7 dedicated eye emergency department. More than 15,000 surgeries are performed at UAB Hospital-Callahan Eye each year, and we conduct more reconstructive eye procedures than any other facility in the world.

Callahan also is known for pioneering developments in surgical instruments, devices, and procedures used by ophthalmologists across the globe. As part of the UAB Medicine academic medical center, Callahan is actively involved in ongoing research and clinical trials. Many of our ophthalmologists have received funding from prestigious research organizations and institutions and collaborate in clinical care to bring the latest in scientific discovery to our patients.

Videos

Resources

• Notice of Health Information Information Practices – UAB Hospital-Callahan Eye
• The Facts About Diabetic Disease
• UAB Hospital-Callahan Eye
• National Eye Institute
• UAB Department of Ophthalmology
• Get Eye Smart

Related Specialties

• Amblyopia, Lazy Eye
• Double Vision
• Dry Eye
• Ophthalmology Services
• Strabismus, Crossed Eyes