Floaters are tiny spots or strands that drift through a person’s field of vision. They are usually most noticeable when looking at a bright, plain background, like a clear sky or white wall. Floaters are caused by small clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear, jelly-like fluid that fills the inside of the eye. 

Most floaters are harmless and don’t require treatment, but a sudden increase can sometimes signal retinal detachment or other eye issues, which require immediate medical attention.