If you’ve ever noticed tiny specks drifting across your vision or brief flashes of light, you might be wondering what’s going on and whether it’s something serious. Flashes and floaters are common visual disturbances, especially as we age, and one of the most frequent reasons patients call or visit their ophthalmologist.
“Flashes and floaters are visual disturbances that are very common as we age,” explains Dr. Jillian Litchfield of Iowa Eye Center.
What are floaters?
Floaters are caused by changes in the gel-like substance that fills the back of your eye, called the vitreous. Over time, parts of this jelly slowly become more liquid. As that happens, tiny clumps or strands form and cast shadows on the retina, which you see as floaters.
“Floaters are all related to the jelly that’s in the back of the eye, which is called the vitreous,” says Dr. Litchfield. “Over time, parts of that jelly turn to liquid in places, and those cast different shadows on the retina, which you perceive as floaters.”
Most people describe floaters as a dark spot, a hair they can’t swat away, a bug that won’t go away, or something that looks like a spiderweb drifting through their vision. Floaters are very common and often move around as your eyes move.
When should floaters be a concern?
While occasional floaters are usually harmless, a sudden or dramatic change should be evaluated. If you normally see a few floaters that come and go, but suddenly notice many more, or a large floater that blocks part of your vision and doesn’t move, it’s important to call your ophthalmologist.
In these cases, a dilated eye exam helps determine whether something more serious is happening in the back of the eye.
What causes flashes of light?
Flashes of light occur when there is traction, or pulling, on the retina. This is also related to changes in the vitreous. As the vitreous shifts and changes shape, it can begin to separate from areas where it was once firmly attached to the retina.
“As it separates, it can cause that traction, and you see that as a flash,” Dr. Litchfield explains. “It’s a very brief, camera light-bulb type flash in your vision.”
Some people may see a single flash, while others experience several. An increase in the number or frequency of flashes is a sign that you should contact your eye doctor.
Who is at higher risk?
Flashes and floaters are most commonly related to aging. Dr. Litchfield compares the process to changes we see elsewhere in the body over time, describing them as little wrinkles in the jelly in the back of the eye.
However, there are certain situations in which flashes and floaters warrant closer attention. People who are very nearsighted, those who have recently had eye surgery, or anyone with a history of eye trauma, even many years ago, may be at higher risk for retinal tears or detachments.
Do floaters go away?
Most floaters do not require treatment. While they don’t physically disappear, many people find they become less noticeable over time.
“Your brain does tend to get more used to them,” says Dr. Litchfield, “so they’ll become less bothersome.”
When should you call your eye doctor?
Any sudden change in your vision should be taken seriously. If you experience a rapid increase in floaters, frequent flashes of light, or changes in how you see, it’s important to schedule an eye exam.
If you’re experiencing flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, or changes in your vision, contact us to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Early evaluation can help rule out more serious conditions and provide reassurance.
