Floaters and flashes are common visual symptoms that many people experience at some point in their lives. While they often are harmless, there are times when they can signal a more serious eye condition. Knowing what they are, why they appear and when to seek care can help protect your vision.
What Floaters Are
Floaters are small shapes that drift across your field of vision. People often describe them as spots threads cobwebs or tiny shadows that move when the eye moves. They are usually caused by changes in the vitreous which is the clear gel that fills the inside of the eye. As we age this gel can shrink or thicken which creates tiny particles that cast shadows on the retina.
Floaters are especially common in people who are nearsighted who have had eye surgery or who are over forty. In many cases they are harmless and become less noticeable over time.
What Flashes Are
Flashes appear as brief flickers or streaks of light often in the peripheral vision. These occur when the vitreous pulls or tugs on the retina. This traction sends a signal that the brain interprets as light even though no actual light is entering the eye.
Occasional flashes may happen naturally as part of the aging process but frequent or new flashes can indicate something that needs attention.
When Floaters and Flashes Are a Concern
Most floaters and flashes are not dangerous but sudden changes can signal a retinal problem. A retinal tear or retinal detachment is the most serious condition linked to new floaters or flashes. This occurs when the retina pulls away from the back of the eye and requires immediate treatment to prevent vision loss.
You should contact an eye doctor right away if you notice any of the following
• A sudden increase in the number of floaters
• New or persistent flashes of light
• A shadow or curtain effect moving across your vision
• A sudden decrease in vision quality
These symptoms can develop quickly and early treatment gives the best chance of protecting your sight.
What to Expect During an Eye Exam
If you visit an ophthalmologist for floaters or flashes they will perform a dilated eye exam to closely examine your retina and vitreous. This allows them to check for any tears holes or signs of detachment. Additional imaging may be used for a more detailed view.
If the retina is intact your doctor may simply monitor the symptoms. If there is a tear they may treat it with a laser or freezing procedure to prevent detachment. Retinal detachment usually requires surgery.
How to Reduce Your Risk
Although floaters and flashes cannot always be prevented maintaining overall eye health can help reduce complications. Protect your eyes from injury manage chronic health conditions like diabetes and schedule routine eye exams especially as you age.
When to Seek Professional Advice
Floaters and flashes are often a normal part of aging but sudden changes should never be ignored. If something feels different or concerning it is always best to have your eyes evaluated promptly. If you are experiencing new floaters flashes or any sudden change in your vision the safest step you can take is to be seen by an eye care professional as soon as possible. Contact us today to schedule your appointment at GTOC and let our experienced team help protect and preserve your sight.