In fact, eye floaters are tiny bits of protein called collagen that float in the gel at the back of your eye, called the vitreous. As you get older, these fibers shrink and clump together, casting small shadows on your retina, or the floaters that you see.
The flashes of light that some people experience happen when the vitreous pulls on the retina.
If floaters or flashes appear suddenly or increase a lot, it’s important to see an eye doctor.
These phenomena are most common at people aged 50 to 75, nearsighted people, or those who has had cataract surgery. While they are harmless most of the time, it’s important to know when to check with a doctor.
