The authors propose that floaters are usually diffraction patterns cast on the retina by red blood cells They are the spots that most people occasionally see before their eyes.

If blood cells are released into the vitreous jelly, that can cause new floaters. When a retinal detachment happens, there can be a large number of new floaters and flashes of light. Commonly ...

Retinal problems Eye floaters can also be a sign that something is wrong with your retina. "If a person has a problem with their retina, like a tear or detachment, small blood vessels may break ...