As an expert in the field of ophthalmology, I can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of eye floaters and their natural progression over time.

Eye floaters are small specks or clouds that move in your field of vision. They are shadows cast by tiny clumps of cells or protein fibers within the vitreous, the clear jelly-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. Floaters are a common occurrence and are often more noticeable when looking at a bright, white background or when outside on a sunny day.

### Causes of Floaters


1. Aging: As we age, the vitreous, which is normally clear and gel-like, can start to shrink and contract. This can cause the clumps or strands to cast shadows on the retina, resulting in the perception of floaters.


2. Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): This is a common cause of floaters, especially in older adults. As the vitreous shrinks, it can pull away from the retina, creating floaters.


3. Myopia (Nearsightedness): People with nearsightedness are more likely to experience floaters because the elongation of the eyeball can cause the vitreous to rub against the retina more, leading to the formation of floaters.


4. Inflammation or Infection: In some cases, floaters can be a sign of inflammation or infection within the eye, which requires immediate medical attention.


5. Eye Surgery or Injury: Following certain eye surgeries or injuries, floaters may develop as a result of the trauma to the eye.

### Do Floaters Go Away?

The answer to whether floaters go away is nuanced. In most cases, floaters are part of the natural aging process and are simply an annoyance. They can be distracting at first, but eventually tend to settle at the bottom of the eye, becoming less bothersome. This settling occurs because the vitreous is denser at the bottom of the eye, causing the floaters to drift downward over time.

While floaters usually settle below the line of sight and do not go away completely, most people adapt to their presence over time. The brain learns to ignore these visual disturbances, and they become less noticeable. However, this process can take weeks to months.

### When to Seek Medical Attention

It's important to note that while floaters are generally harmless, a sudden increase in the number of floaters, especially accompanied by flashes of light, can be a sign of a retinal detachment, which is a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.

### Treatment Options

There are limited treatment options for floaters. In some cases, certain surgical procedures, such as vitrectomy, can be performed to remove the floaters. However, these procedures carry risks and are typically reserved for cases where floaters significantly impair vision or quality of life.

### Conclusion

In summary, while floaters can be a nuisance, they are usually a natural part of aging and do not pose a threat to vision. Most floaters will settle over time and become less noticeable as the brain adapts to their presence. If you experience a sudden increase in floaters or any other concerning symptoms, it's important to consult with an eye care professional.

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These are floaters. In most cases, floaters are part of the natural aging process and simply an annoyance. They can be distracting at first, but eventually tend to --settle-- at the bottom of the eye, becoming less bothersome. They usually settle below the line of sight and do not go away completely.read more >>