What Causes Black Spots on the Eyeball?

What Causes Black Spots on the Eyeball?

Seeing a black spot on your eyeball can be confusing and even a little scary. You might have noticed it in the mirror, or someone else pointed it out. Is it dangerous? Should you visit a doctor right away? Or is it something harmless that doesn’t need treatment?

This blog breaks down what can cause black spots in your vision, the different types, and how to know if it’s harmless or needs a doctor’s attention.

What Is a Black Spot on the Eyeball?

When someone says a “black spot on the eyeball,” what they mean is a dark mark seen on the white part of the eye (the sclera). It might also show up on the colored part (iris) or appear as shadows or floaters inside the eye. These spots can vary as they may be tiny or large, stay in one place, or move when the eye moves.

Common Causes of Black Spots on the Eyeball

There are several reasons why a black or dark spot might appear on the eye. Some are harmless. Others may need medical attention.

1. Pigmentation Marks

Just like freckles or moles on the skin, the eyes can develop pigmented spots. These are often:

  • Conjunctival Nevus: A flat or slightly raised spot on the white part of the eye.

  • Scleral Melanocytosis: Common in people with darker skin, this is a bluish or gray patch on the sclera.

Most of these are harmless, but it’s important to monitor them over time.

2. Subconjunctival Hemorrhage

Sometimes a small blood vessel can break under the clear surface of the eye. This causes a red patch or spot. If it’s dark enough, it might appear like a black mark. It usually goes away on its own in 1–2 weeks and doesn’t cause pain.

3. Eye Injuries

An eye injury can sometimes leave a dark spot. A scratch or blow to the eye may cause blood or pigment to build up, which can show as a mark on the surface.

4. Foreign Object or Surface Stain

Dust, makeup particles, or even tiny metal or wood shavings can get stuck on the eye surface. They may look like black dots. These need to be removed carefully by an eye doctor.

5. Iris or Corneal Pigmentation

Sometimes the spot is not on the white part, but on the iris or cornea. A dark freckle on the iris is usually harmless but should be checked once a year. Dark corneal marks may be linked to past infections or injuries.

Different Types of Black Spots

Flat vs Raised

  • Flat spots are usually pigmentation.

  • Raised spots need careful observation. If they grow or change, visit a doctor.

Fixed vs Moving

  • A fixed spot (stays in the same place) is usually on the surface.

  • A moving black spot, like a shadow or small dot in your vision, is often caused by a floater inside the eye.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Let’s have a look at the symptoms that need attention:

  • The spot is growing in size

  • The color of the spot is changing

  • persistent pain, irritation, or pressure

  • There’s redness or blurry vision

  • The spot appeared suddenly, especially after an injury

  • You have multiple spots, or they move around in your vision (this might mean floaters or even retinal issues)

In rare cases, a dark spot could be something more serious, like ocular melanoma, which is a type of eye cancer. It’s rare but worth ruling out.

What Will an Eye Doctor Check?

Visiting an eye doctor for a black spot? Here’s what typically takes place during the eye examination:

  • Visual exam to look at the shape, color, and location of the spot

  • Slit lamp test, which gives a close-up view of the eye

  • Check your vision to see if the spot is affecting how you see

  • In some cases, they might do a scan or photograph of the eye to track changes over time

Treatment Options

The treatment depends entirely on the cause:

  • No Treatment Needed: If it’s a stable pigment spot, your doctor might just recommend monitoring it once a year.

  • Eye Drops: For redness, puffiness, or irritation, eye drops can reduce redness and discomfort..

  • removing a stuck particle: If there’s something stuck in your eye, your doctor will safely remove it.

  • Surgical or Laser Treatment: This is usually considered in those cases where the condition goes beyond mild irritation, like any deep infection or tumor.

How to remove black spots from eyes at home?

If you notice any symptom, here are a few things you can consider:

  • Don’t rub your eyes. It can make things worse.

  • Avoid considering eye makeup or contact lenses until it’s checked.

  • Notice minor changes such as size, shape, pain, or changes in vision.

  • Use eye drops prescribed by a good eye specialist if your eyes feel dry and itchy.

Conclusion

Your eyes are delicate. A black spot on the eyeball may not seem like much, but it’s always better to get it checked if you’re unsure. In most cases, it’s nothing serious; still, only a specialist can tell for sure.

If you or someone you know notices a new spot or any change in their eyes, don’t wait too long. Early attention can prevent bigger problems.