Seeing floaters or flashes in your vision can be alarming, but they are often harmless. However, in some cases, they may signal a more serious eye condition that requires immediate attention. At VisionMD Eye Doctors, we help patients understand what these visual disturbances mean and when to seek professional care.
What Are Eye Floaters & Flashes?
- Floaters appear as small, shadowy shapes that drift across your field of vision. They may look like spots, cobwebs, or squiggly lines.
- Flashes are sudden bursts or streaks of light that occur in your peripheral vision, often resembling lightning strikes or camera flashes.
These occur due to changes in the vitreous, the gel-like substance inside the eye, which shrinks or pulls away from the retina over time.
Common Causes of Floaters & Flashes
Most floaters and flashes are a normal part of aging, but they can also result from:
- Vitreous Detachment: The natural aging process where the vitreous gel pulls away from the retina.
- Retinal Tears or Detachment: A serious condition where the retina separates from the back of the eye, potentially leading to vision loss.
- Eye Inflammation (Uveitis): Infections or autoimmune conditions can cause floaters.
- Eye Injury: Trauma to the eye may result in sudden flashes and floaters.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Diabetes-related damage to retinal blood vessels can cause floaters.
When to See an Eye Doctor
While occasional floaters are common, seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- A sudden increase in floaters or flashes
- A shadow or curtain effect over your vision
- Blurred vision or loss of peripheral vision
- Flashes of light that persist
These symptoms could indicate retinal detachment or tear, which requires urgent treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
How VisionMD Eye Doctors Can Help
At VisionMD Eye Doctors, we use advanced retinal imaging and comprehensive eye exams to diagnose and manage floaters and flashes. If a serious condition is detected, we offer treatments such as:
- Laser Therapy for retinal tears
- Vitrectomy Surgery for severe or bothersome floaters
- Ongoing Monitoring for mild cases to ensure eye health
Protect Your Vision – Schedule an Eye Exam
If you’re experiencing new or worsening floaters and flashes, don’t ignore them. Early detection is key to preventing vision loss.
Schedule an appointment with VisionMD Eye Doctors for a thorough eye examination and expert care.