Flashes and Floaters

Flashes and Floaters

Floaters are small specks, dots, threads, or cobweb-like shadows that appear to move through the field of vision. They often come from tiny clumps in the vitreous, the clear gel inside the eye.

Flashes can happen when the vitreous tugs on the retina. This is more common with age as the vitreous changes and separates from the back of the eye, a process called posterior vitreous detachment.

Who is more likely to notice these symptoms?

• People above middle age.
• People who are nearsighted.
• Patients who have had cataract surgery.
• Patients who have had YAG laser treatment.
• People with inflammation inside the eye.

When to seek care urgently

A sudden shower of new floaters, repeated flashes, decreased side vision, or a curtain-like shadow can indicate a retinal tear or retinal detachment. These symptoms should be checked promptly because early treatment can reduce the risk of permanent vision loss.