If you’ve ever noticed tiny specks or thread-like shadows drifting across your vision, especially when looking at a bright sky or a white wall, you’re not imagining things. These visual disruptions are known as eye floaters, and while they’re usually harmless, there are moments when they deserve more serious attention.
At VisionQuest Eyecare, serving busy families in Greenwood and Fishers, we understand that time is precious, especially for parents juggling school drop-offs, work meetings, and weekend soccer tournaments. This guide is here to explain what floaters are, when to schedule an eye exam, and how our advanced diagnostics help you protect your vision with confidence.
What Are Floaters?
Floaters are tiny clumps of cells or gel that form inside the vitreous, the clear gel-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. As we age, the vitreous begins to shrink and pull away from the retina, creating floaters that cast shadows on your vision.
They might look like:
- Small dots, squiggles, or cobwebs drifting across your field of vision
- Specks that move when you try to look directly at them
- Shapes that seem more noticeable when staring at something bright, like a screen or sunny sky
Floaters are often a normal part of the aging process, especially for adults over 40. However, you should not ignore them, especially if new symptoms appear suddenly or interfere with daily tasks.
When Should You Worry About Floaters?
While most floaters are harmless, some may signal a more serious condition, especially when accompanied by flashes of light or sudden vision changes. If you experience any of the following, it’s time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam:
- A sudden increase in the number or size of floaters
- Flashes of light in your peripheral vision
- A shadow or “curtain” effect appearing across part of your vision
- Blurred vision that does not improve
- A history of eye trauma, surgery, or myopia (nearsightedness)
These signs may indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Prompt diagnosis is essential and that’s where VisionQuest’s cutting-edge technology makes all the difference.
How VisionQuest Eyecare Diagnoses and Monitors Floaters
At VisionQuest Eyecare, we go beyond a basic eye check. We offer state-of-the-art imaging technology to examine the retina, vitreous, and optic nerve with exceptional precision.
Our diagnostic tools may include:
- Optomap Retinal Imaging – captures wide-field images of your retina without dilation
- OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) – scans layers of the retina to detect tears, swelling, or degeneration
- Slit Lamp Examination – a detailed, light-assisted look at the front and back of your eyes
This advanced equipment helps our doctors determine whether floaters are benign or need urgent attention. Most importantly, it ensures that every patient receives care tailored to your specific needs.
Why Regular Eye Exams Matter—Even for “Mild” Floaters
Even if your floaters seem minimal, it’s still important to have your eyes checked annually. Floaters can develop gradually, and what starts as a minor annoyance could mask an underlying condition like:
- Retinal thinning
- Posterior vitreous detachment
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular degeneration
At VisionQuest Eyecare, our expert optometrists take the time to explain your retinal health in
terms you can understand. You’ll leave your appointment with a clear care plan, peace of mind, and access to a wide range of solutions, whether you need monitoring, follow-up visits, or simply updated lenses for clearer sight.
Convenient Scheduling. Exceptional Care.
We know that for many of our patients, convenience isn’t optional, it’s essential. That’s why VisionQuest offers online appointment scheduling, two easy-to-reach locations, and a team that prioritizes your time as much as your vision.
If you’re noticing floaters, or it’s just been too long since your last eye exam, don’t wait. Floaters may be a normal part of aging, but early detection is the key to protecting your sight.
Take Control of Your Eye Health Today
Floaters may be common, but your vision is one-of-a-kind. Trust VisionQuest Eyecare to deliver personal, professional care using the most advanced tools available. Whether you need peace of mind or a clear next step, we’re here to help, right where you are.
Schedule Your Comprehensive Eye Exam Now
Dr. Chris Browning is a Greenwood native, who has been serving the community through glaucoma care and myopia management. He studied at Indiana University Bloomington and the Indiana University School of Optometry. As he has severe nearsightedness himself, Dr. Browning is passionate about helping others to achieve excellent vision.