- AreĀ nearsighted
- Have hadĀ cataract surgery
- Suffer fromĀ diabetes, which can lead toĀ diabetic retinopathy
- Aging
Symptoms to Watch For

Generally, they are harmless, but if you experience a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow appearing in your peripheral vision, it could signal a retinal tear or detachment. These are medical emergencies and require immediate attention.
How Are Floaters Diagnosed?

Eye doctors use a dilated eye exam to diagnose floaters. This involves dilating the pupils with eye drops to get a better view of the vitreous and retina. The exam allows the specialist to identify any abnormalities or underlying issues, such as retinal tears.
When Are Floaters a Medical Emergency?
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