Understanding Floaters and Flashes in Vision
What are floaters?
Floaters are small specks, dots, or thread-like shapes that drift through your field of vision. They are most noticeable when looking at a clear sky, a white screen, or any bright, uniform background. Floaters are caused by tiny pieces of the vitreous—the jelly-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. As we age, the vitreous gradually becomes more liquid, causing the formation of specks that cast shadows on the retina, creating the appearance of floaters. While floaters are usually harmless, a sudden increase in their number may indicate a more serious problem, such as a retinal tear or detachment.
What are flashes?
Flashes are brief, bright bursts of light that appear in your vision, typically in dim lighting and often in the corners or periphael areas of your vision. These occur when the vitreous shrinks and tugs on the retina. While flashes are commonly associated with aging, they can also be a symptom of a retinal detachment—a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Some people also experience flashes as part of migraine aura, which may or may not be accompanied by a headache.
Common causes of floaters and flashes
Both floaters and flashes are typically linked to the natural aging process, as the structure of the eye changes over time. Other factors that may contribute to floaters and flashes include:
- Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): The separation of the vitreous from the retina as we age.
- Retinal Tears or Detachment: A more serious cause that can lead to vision loss if untreated.
- Eye Injury or Trauma: Can lead to changes in the vitreous or retina, causing floaters or flashes.
- Migraine Aura: Some people see flashes of light before or during a migraine.
When should I see a doctor?
While floaters and flashes are often harmless, it’s important to have them evaluated by an ophthalmologist to rule out serious conditions like retinal detachment. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters
- Flashes of light that become more frequent
- A dark curtain or shadow moving across your field of vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
These symptoms may indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.
How Iowa Eye Center can help
At Iowa Eye Center, our experienced ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic tools to determine whether your floaters and flashes are a normal part of aging or a sign of a more serious issue. While there is no specific treatment for floaters or flashes, monitoring their progression is crucial to maintaining your eye health. We recommend scheduling regular eye exams to ensure your eyes are in good condition.
If you’re experiencing floaters or flashes, don’t wait. Call us at (319) 362-3937 to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists today.