The eye is filled with a clear jelly-like substance made of collagen called the vitreous humour. Ideally the vitreous should be clear with no opacities. It is common, however, to have opacities floating around in the vitreous and these consist of collagen which has become 'clumpy' and no longer clear. These are called 'floaters', and appear to be spots, wiggly lines or 'clouds' in your vision. These spots or lines can appear either like a dark shadow or clear (like a jelly fish), depending on where they are located within the eye.
Floaters are usually harmless, but they can also occur under more serious circumstances, such as with retinal tears, retinal detachments, retinal inflammation or internal eye infections. Some of these conditions can result in permanent blindness if not treated promptly. It is therefore important, that if you notice any new floaters, to have an eye examination immediately.
Floaters are usually harmless, but they can also occur under more serious circumstances, such as with retinal tears, retinal detachments, retinal inflammation or internal eye infections. Some of these conditions can result in permanent blindness if not treated promptly. It is therefore important, that if you notice any new floaters, to have an eye examination immediately.
The vitreous of the eye is normally clear. Floaters are opacities which occur in the vitreous.
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A retinal tear is a common cause of retinal detachment.
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