Do eye flashes and floaters need treatment?
Not always. Many floaters are harmless and your brain will eventually get used to them. Some big floaters can block your vision. Call our office if you have new floaters. It’s important to call within 24-48 hours if you see flashes of light and have never experienced them before
What are eye floaters and flashes?
Your eye is filled with a clear gel called the vitreous. It is clear and completely fills the eye, but as you get older it liquifies just like Jello. What's left can clump to form floaters, causing a shadow on the retina that can be seen. Eye floaters often are noticeable when you look at bright lights/sunlight or at white paper/background. Flashes happen when the vitreous gel rubs or pulls on the retina as it moves. This can be easier to see in the dark when you move your eyes or place pressure on them.
Should I worry about eye floaters and flashes?
Stable, occasional flashes and floaters are often nothing to worry about. Floaters that suddenly increase in number could be a sign of:
- Torn or detached retina
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Bleeding in the vitreous
- Inflamed retina due to infection
When should I be more concerned and call your eye doctor are:
- Suddenly witness numerous floaters, particularly after an eye surgery or accident affecting the face/eyes
- See flashes of light occurring frequently
- Suddenly notice a loss of side vision