Flashing Lights and Floaters

Floaters and flashes are common eye symptoms, especially with aging. At Hashemi Eye Care, we provide expert diagnosis and care for these visual disturbances. Whether they're harmless or linked to serious conditions like retinal detachment, our team is here to protect your eye health.

What Are Floaters and Flashes?

Floaters and flashes are common visual disturbances that many people experience as they age. Although they can be a normal part of the aging process, they may sometimes indicate a more serious underlying condition, especially when they appear suddenly or in large numbers.

What Are Floaters?

Floaters are small specks, dots, circles, lines, or cobwebs that seem to drift in your field of vision. They are not actually in front of your eye but are caused by tiny clumps of gel or cells within the vitreous, the clear substance filling your eye. These clumps cast shadows on the retina, which is what you perceive as floaters.

You may notice floaters when looking at a plain background, such as a blank wall or the sky. While floaters are usually harmless, they can become more prominent with age as the vitreous thickens or shrinks, a process known as posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).

Common Risk Factors for Floaters:

Nearsightedness (Myopia): People with myopia are more likely to experience floaters due to changes in the vitreous.
Cataract Surgery: Floaters can develop after cataract surgery, particularly if the vitreous moves or detaches.
Eye Inflammation (Uveitis): Inflammation inside the eye can cause debris to form in the vitreous, leading to floaters.

What Are Flashes?

Flashes appear as brief bursts of light or lightning streaks in your field of vision. They occur when the vitreous gel pulls on or rubs against the retina. Flashes can appear on and off for weeks or even months. These flashes are often more noticeable with age as the vitreous pulls away from the retina.

Flashes Related to Migraines: Some individuals experience flashes that appear as jagged lines or "heat waves," typically lasting 10 to 20 minutes. These flashes are often associated with migraines and may occur with or without a headache. Learn more on our Migraines Page.

When Should You Be Concerned About Floaters and Flashes?

While floaters and flashes are generally harmless, they can sometimes signal a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

A sudden increase in new floaters
Frequent or intense flashes of light
A shadow or curtain effect in your side (peripheral) vision
A sudden loss of vision

These symptoms could indicate retinal detachment, a condition that requires urgent treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.

Causes of Floaters and Flashes

Floaters and flashes can be caused by various factors, including:

Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): The most common cause, this occurs when the vitreous gel pulls away from the retina.
Eye Injury or Trauma: Ocular trauma can lead to flashes or floaters.
Eye Infections or Inflammation: Conditions like uveitis can increase the likelihood of floaters.
Migraine or Headache: Migraines, especially ophthalmic migraines, can trigger visual disturbances such as flashes.
Diabetes: Conditions like diabetic retinopathy can increase the risk of retinal issues.

More serious causes include retinal tears or detachment, which require immediate treatment.

Treatment for Floaters and Flashes

Most floaters and flashes are harmless and fade over time. However, if they are severe or caused by an underlying condition, treatment may be necessary.

Common Treatment Options Include:

Observation: Many cases do not require treatment as floaters tend to become less noticeable over time.
Surgery: In rare cases, severe floaters may be treated with surgery, such as a vitrectomy, though this is rarely recommended due to the risks involved.
Laser Therapy: Some floaters can be treated with laser therapy to break them up and make them less noticeable.
Migraine Management: If flashes are caused by migraines, managing migraine triggers can help reduce occurrences.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you notice a significant change in the number or type of floaters and flashes, especially if accompanied by vision loss or other symptoms, it’s crucial to consult with an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive evaluation. Early detection of retinal issues can prevent vision loss and other complications.

Schedule an Eye Exam

If you are experiencing frequent or bothersome floaters and flashes, contact us to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. We will assess your symptoms and help determine if any further treatment or monitoring is necessary.