What causes floaters in the eyes?
Nov 17, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
In general, the sensation of floating spots in the eyes may be caused by physiological floaters, eye strain, vitreous opacities, retinal tears, or uveitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, avoid strenuous exercise and eye injuries to prevent further traction of the retina by the vitreous.
Under normal circumstances, the sensation of seeing floating bugs in the eyes may be caused by physiological floaters, eye strain, vitreous opacity, retinal hole, or uveitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Physiological floaters: With aging, the vitreous humor undergoes mild degeneration, leading to a small amount of floccular opacities that cast shadows on the retina, creating the appearance of moving specks or "flying insects," which become more noticeable under bright light. This is a normal physiological phenomenon that does not require special treatment. Avoid prolonged exposure to intense light and have regular fundus examinations.
2. Eye strain: Prolonged熬夜 or extended focus on electronic devices can cause eye fatigue, temporarily disrupting vitreous metabolism and resulting in transient sensations of floating objects. Ensure 7–8 hours of sleep per day, take a 5-minute break to look into the distance every 30 minutes of screen use, and consider using artificial tears to lubricate the ocular surface and relieve fatigue.
3. Vitreous opacity: Degeneration, inflammation, or bleeding within the vitreous body can worsen opacity, causing frequent sensations of floaters with an increased number of dark spots that drift with eye movement. Follow medical advice to use medications such as choline chloride complex iodine tablets, amiodarone peptide eye drops, and lutein soft capsules to promote absorption of the opacities.
4. Retinal hole: When the vitreous tugs on the retina, it may create a hole. Early symptoms include persistent floaters or flashes of light, which could progress to retinal detachment. Immediate medical evaluation is essential. Retinal laser photocoagulation should be performed to seal the hole and prevent further progression, thereby preserving vision.
5. Uveitis: Inflammation of the uvea caused by immune dysfunction or infection leads to inflammatory exudates that block light, producing shadow-like floaters, often accompanied by redness and pain in the eye. Follow medical instructions to use anti-inflammatory eye drops such as prednisolone acetate, cyclosporine, and pranoprofen to control the inflammatory response.
In daily life, avoid strenuous exercise and eye injuries to prevent further traction of the vitreous on the retina. Consume foods rich in vitamin C and lutein, such as oranges and spinach, quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, and reduce the risk of damage to ocular tissues.
