Flashes and Floaters

The vitreous gel naturally changes with age, making floaters more common in older adults. While the changes are usually gradual, some people notice a sudden increase in floaters when the vitreous detaches from the retina.

People who are nearsighted have longer eyes, which makes posterior vitreous detachment more likely to happen at a younger age. Nearsighted individuals also have a higher risk of retinal tears and detachment.

Some people are born with thin areas in the outer retina called lattice degeneration. These areas have a higher risk of developing tears or holes, which our ophthalmologists check for during comprehensive exams.

Cataract surgery and other eye procedures can sometimes trigger changes in the vitreous by disturbing the normal structure inside the eye. Any new symptoms after surgery should be checked by our ophthalmologists.

Trauma to the eye can cause the vitreous to separate from the retina or directly damage it. Even minor injuries should be evaluated if they are followed by new floaters or flashes of light.

Diabetes can affect blood vessels in the eye and lead to bleeding into the vitreous, causing a sudden shower of floaters. High blood pressure can also damage eye blood vessels, so keeping these conditions controlled is important.

Inflammation inside the eye, called uveitis, can cause floaters along with eye pain, redness, and blurred vision. This condition requires treatment to prevent serious complications.

Some people experience visual disturbances called migraine aura, which can be confused with flashes. Migraine auras appear as shimmering zig-zag lines that usually affect both eyes and may be followed by a headache.

The exam begins with questions about your symptoms and health history. We then test your vision sharpness, check eye movements, and assess your visual field for any blind spots that might indicate retinal issues.

A dilated eye exam is the most important part of the diagnosis. Eye drops widen your pupils, allowing our doctors to see the entire retina and vitreous. Vision may be blurry for several hours afterward, so you will need a driver.

Our ophthalmologists use this technique to scan the far edges of the retina where tears often occur. This method provides a complete view of the retina, sometimes with gentle pressure on the outside of the eye to improve the view.

OCT provides detailed cross-section images of the retina. This quick, painless test helps identify swelling or other complications affecting the macula, the center of your retina.

If bleeding blocks the view of the retina, an ultrasound can create images using sound waves. This test helps us check for retinal detachment or other serious problems that are not otherwise visible.

While most are harmless, a sudden onset of new floaters, especially with flashes of light or vision loss, can be a warning sign of a retinal tear or detachment. Most people with floaters will not develop a detachment, but new symptoms always require a prompt eye exam to rule out serious issues.

Floaters rarely disappear completely, but they often become less noticeable as they settle and your brain adapts. It is normal to see them more in bright light. Floaters that have been stable for months or years are usually permanent but not a cause for concern.

There is no way to prevent age-related vitreous changes that cause most floaters. However, wearing safety glasses to prevent eye injuries and managing health conditions like diabetes can reduce the risk of floaters from other causes.

If your floaters are from normal aging, you can typically continue normal exercise. If they are caused by a retinal tear or you have recently had treatment, our ophthalmologists will provide specific instructions about avoiding heavy lifting or jarring activities.

Migraine auras often appear as shimmering, zig-zag lines in both eyes that last for 10-30 minutes and may be followed by a headache. Floaters are distinct shapes within one eye that move when the eye moves and are always present.

Sudden new floaters, repeated flashes, or a shadow blocking your vision require same-day emergency evaluation. For any other new, non-urgent symptoms, you should schedule an exam within a few days to have your retina checked.

Surgery called vitrectomy is only for cases where floaters are so severe they significantly impact daily life. The surgery carries risks like cataract formation and retinal detachment, so it is rarely recommended. Most patients adapt to their floaters without needing surgery.

Yes, floaters can occur in younger adults, especially those who are very nearsighted. They can also result from eye injuries or certain medical conditions. Any young person who notices new floaters should have a comprehensive eye exam.