Vision

Why Do I See Floaters — And Should I Be Worried?

February 20, 2026  ·  Dr. Brandon Harnos, O.D.

You've probably noticed them before — small specks, threads, or squiggly lines that drift across your vision when you look at a bright sky or white wall. These are called floaters, and they're actually shadows cast by tiny clumps inside the vitreous, the gel-like fluid that fills your eye. For most people, floaters are harmless and simply become part of their visual landscape over time.

However, not all floaters are created equal. If you suddenly notice a dramatic increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a dark curtain creeping across your vision, those are symptoms that require immediate attention — they could signal a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency. At Harnos Optometry, our New Paltz, NY eye doctors use advanced retinal imaging technology to evaluate your eye health and give you real peace of mind.

The bottom line: the occasional floater is rarely cause for alarm, but your eyes deserve a professional look. If it's been more than a year since your last comprehensive eye exam, or if you've noticed new or sudden floaters, schedule an appointment with us today. We're conveniently located in New Paltz, NY and accepting new patients.

Ready to prioritize your eye health? Our team at Harnos Optometry in New Paltz is here for you.

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