Many people occasionally notice small dots or wavy shapes drifting across their vision.
The phenomenon is known as “floaters” and is especially noticeable against bright backgrounds or in strong light.
According to the NHS, they are often caused by changes in the eye’s vitreous gel.
The condition occurs when the gel inside the eye changes structure with age. The NHS describes it as a common and usually harmless process.
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However, ophthalmologist Daniel Polya from the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists told Daily Mail Australia, according to LADbible, that new visual disturbances should be examined promptly.
Collagen in the eye
According to Daniel Polya, floaters occur when collagen fibers in the vitreous gel clump together and cast shadows on the retina.
These shadows are what people perceive as moving lines or spots.
He explains that the vitreous makes up around 80 percent of the eye and that these changes often become more noticeable with age.
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Some patients become accustomed to the symptoms, but the expert points out that larger or bothersome floaters can, in some cases, be treated with laser therapy. However, the treatment carries risks.
Risks may be discovered too late
Although floaters are typically harmless, in some cases they can lead to retinal tears.
According to Daniel Polya, there is around a five percent risk that the condition may develop into a retinal tear.
If a tear occurs, he estimates that the risk of a subsequent retinal detachment is approximately 50 percent.
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For this reason, the expert emphasizes the importance of an early examination by an optometrist or ophthalmologist when symptoms first appear.
Sources: LADbible, NHS, and Daily Mail Australia.
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