Episode 91: Eye Floaters: When Should You Worry?

Ever see dots, strings, cobwebs, or squiggly shapes drifting across your vision?

They’re called floaters, and most of the time they’re harmless. But a sudden shower of new floaters—especially with flashing lights—can sometimes be a warning sign of a retinal tear or retinal detachment.

In this Eye-Q Quick Take, neuro-ophthalmologist Dr. Rani Banik explains what floaters actually are, why they become more common with age, what happens during a posterior vitreous detachment, and the symptoms that mean you should seek urgent eye care.

You’ll also learn why floaters don’t necessarily disappear completely, who is at higher risk for retinal problems, and how floaters differ from migraine aura.

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