What are the squigly linews that you sometimes see in your eye then when you try to look at it it goes away?

Question

What are the squigly linews that you sometimes see in your eye then when you try to look at it it goes away?

Answer 1

They are called floaters, and are very common -

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floater

Answer 2

Vitreous floaters....they are collagen fibers that clump together and occassionaly cast a shadow when the light hits them just right.  Generally, they are harmless, but if they are numerous and accompanied by  flashing lights, you should be seen right away.  This could indicate a problem with the retina.