Floaters and Flashes
Floaters and flashes are common visual disturbances that often occur as we age. While they are usually harmless, sudden changes can sometimes indicate serious eye conditions that require urgent attention.
What are floaters?
Floaters appear as small black spots, strands, cobwebs or hair-like shapes drifting across your vision. They are caused by changes in the jelly-like substance inside the eye (the vitreous), where tiny clumps of collagen or cells cast shadows on the retina.
Floaters are very common and usually harmless. If they have been present for many years the brain often learns to ignore them. However, a sudden increase in floaters should never be ignored.
Seek urgent advice if you experience:
- A sudden increase in floaters, especially with flashing lights
- A new large floater appearing suddenly
- Changes after a direct blow to the eye
- A shadow or curtain spreading across your vision
Why do floaters appear?
As we get older, the gel inside the eye naturally shrinks and becomes more liquid. This causes collagen fibres to clump together creating shadows that appear as floaters.
In some cases, the gel can pull away from the retina creating a large ring-shaped floater. While this is usually harmless, it should still be assessed by an optometrist.
What should I do if I have floaters?
Most floaters do not require treatment. However, a sudden increase in floaters may be a sign of retinal detachment which is a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.
If you notice new floaters, flashes or a shadow in your vision, contact your optometrist immediately.
What are flashes of light?
Flashes appear as brief sparkles or lightning streaks, usually at the edges of your vision. They occur when the vitreous gel pulls on the retina as it becomes more liquid.
Flashes may come and go and often increase with age. However, persistent flashes can indicate retinal detachment.
When flashes need urgent attention
If flashes are constant, worsening or accompanied by a sudden increase in floaters or shadows in your vision, seek urgent advice from your optometrist or eye emergency services.
Concerned about floaters or flashes?