Many serious eye conditions are caused by problems with the vitreous. The vitreous gel is a clear substance which fills the cavity of the eye and is attached to the retina. It is jelly-like in consistency, but also contains strong strands of protein. With age the vitreous gel slowly liquefies, allowing protein strands to clump together, often creating liquid filled pockets. As a result, many patients recognize floaters which are particles in the vitreous gel. These often become more noticeable with age as small moving specks or lines in the vision.