Ace the ABO Ophthalmology Challenge 2026 – See Your Future Shine!

Question: 1 / 400

What typically causes floaters in one's vision?

Changes in refractive errors

Clumps of gel or cells in the vitreous

Floaters in one’s vision are primarily caused by clumps of gel or cells in the vitreous, the transparent jelly-like substance that fills the eye. As people age, the vitreous gel can undergo changes, such as liquefaction, leading to the formation of small clumps. When these clumps cast shadows on the retina, they appear as floaters in the visual field.

This phenomenon can be more pronounced in certain conditions, such as myopia or after cataract surgery, but it generally remains a common part of the aging process. Understanding the nature of floaters is crucial, as their sudden increase or change in characteristics may indicate more serious underlying conditions, such as retinal detachment, which requires immediate attention. However, the primary and typical cause remains the alteration of the vitreous gel.

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Retinal detachment

Corneal scarring

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