You may notice changes to this website as we work to make it easier to use.

This is a warning - find out more.

Floaters

Floaters are tiny specks that can be seen in your field of vision, especially when you look at a light-coloured area such as a blue sky or white wall. They are created when tiny clumps form in the clear, jelly-like substance (the vitreous humour) inside the eyeball. Eye floaters are suspended in this 'jelly', so they move when your eyeball moves. If you try to look directly at them, the floaters may seem to disappear.

Floaters can come in different sizes and shapes. Some floaters look like small dots, while others appear like threads or little hairy clumps. In most cases, floaters are normal and harmless. However, a sudden increase in their number may indicate damage to particular internal structures of the eye. This requires professional attention.

In an emergency

If you are in an emergency situation, call 000

Health advice

Get qualified health advice 24/7 for the cost of a local call: 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)