Have you ever noticed black spots, floaters, or tiny specks drifting across your vision? These visual disturbances can be harmless or a sign of a more serious eye condition.
At Billings Vision Center, we help patients understand what causes these black spots in vision, when they are normal, and when they require professional care.
If you’ve been experiencing new or worsening floaters, it’s essential to know what they mean and whether you should schedule an eye exam.
What Are Black Spots in Vision?
Black spots in vision—often called floaters—are tiny, shadowy specks, dots, or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your field of vision. They move when you move your eyes, and if you try to look at them directly, they seem to “float” away.
Floaters are typically caused by small clumps of gel or protein fibers inside the vitreous humor—the clear, gel-like substance that fills your eye. These clumps cast shadows on the retina, creating the floating black spots you see.
Common Causes of Black Spots in Vision
Normal Aging Process
As we age, the vitreous gel inside the eye naturally shrinks and liquefies, causing small fibers to clump together. This is called vitreous degeneration and is a normal part of aging, especially after age 50.
Eye Floaters from Eye Strain or Fatigue
If you stare at screens for long periods or experience eye fatigue, temporary floaters may appear. These usually go away with rest and proper hydration.
Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)
When the vitreous gel separates from the retina, it can cause a sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your peripheral vision. PVD is common but should be evaluated by an eye doctor to rule out retinal damage.
Retinal Tears or Retinal Detachment (Emergency!)
In rare cases, floaters can be a warning sign of a serious eye condition like a retinal tear or retinal detachment. Symptoms that indicate a medical emergency include:
- A sudden burst of new floaters
- Flashes of light (photopsia)
- A shadow or curtain effect in your vision
These symptoms require immediate medical attention to prevent permanent vision loss.
Eye Infections and Inflammation (Uveitis)
Inflammation inside the eye, such as uveitis, can cause floaters, pain, and redness. This condition needs prompt treatment by an eye doctor to prevent complications.
Eye Trauma or Injury
A direct impact to the eye can cause vitreous changes, leading to temporary or persistent floaters. Any trauma to the eye should be evaluated by an optometrist.
Diabetic Retinopathy
People with diabetes are at risk for diabetic retinopathy, where abnormal blood vessels leak into the retina, causing floaters and vision disturbances. Routine diabetic eye exams can help detect this early.
When to See an Eye Doctor About Black Spots in Vision
While occasional floaters are usually harmless, there are situations where you should seek an eye exam as soon as possible:
- Sudden increase in floaters
- Flashes of light in your vision
- A shadow or curtain effect in your peripheral vision
- Blurred vision or eye pain
- History of eye injury or high myopia (nearsightedness)
If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them—they could indicate a retinal tear, detachment, or another urgent condition.
How Are Floaters Treated?
For most people, mild floaters do not require treatment. However, if floaters interfere with vision, your eye doctor may discuss options such as:
- Observation & Monitoring – If your floaters are stable and not affecting vision, regular check-ups are recommended.
- Laser Therapy (YAG Vitreolysis) – In some cases, a laser can break up large floaters to reduce their impact.
- Vitrectomy Surgery – In severe cases, removal of the vitreous gel may be considered, though this is rarely needed.
The best way to determine the cause of your floaters and whether you need treatment is to schedule an eye exam.
Protect Your Vision – Schedule an Eye Exam at Billings Vision Center
Your eyes are too important to take chances with. If you’re seeing black spots, new floaters, or flashes of light, it’s best to get your eyes checked. Early detection can prevent serious vision problems and ensure long-term eye health.
Protect your vision—schedule your eye exam in Billings today.