24 Nov Floaters and Flashes: When to Call an Eye Doctor
Have you ever looked at a bright sky and seen tiny specks, strings, or cobwebs drifting across your vision? Those are called floaters. Some people also see quick streaks of light in the side of their vision. Those are called flashes. Most floaters and flashes are harmless, but sometimes they are a warning sign that needs quick care. Knowing when to call an eye doctor can help protect your sight.
What Are Floaters?
Floaters are small clumps inside the clear gel that fills your eye. This gel is called the vitreous. As we age, the gel can shrink and pull away from the retina. You may then notice little specks or threads that move when your eyes move. A small, stable floater that you have had for a long time is usually not an emergency. A sudden shower of new floaters is different and should be checked.
What Are Flashes?
Flashes look like brief sparks or camera flashes. They happen when the vitreous tugs on the retina. Some people see them in a dark room or at night. New flashes can be a sign that the retina is being pulled and needs a careful exam.
When to Call Right Away
Call an eye doctor the same day if you notice any of the following:
- A sudden increase in floaters
- New flashes of light
- A gray curtain, veil, or shadow in your vision
- Loss of side vision
- New floaters or flashes after an eye injury or after eye surgery
These can be signs of a retinal tear or a retinal detachment. These problems need fast treatment to protect vision. To learn how we watch the retina closely, see our post on Retinal Screening for Monitoring Ocular Diseases.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Anyone can get floaters and flashes, but the risk is higher if you:
- Are over age 50
- Are very nearsighted
- Have had eye surgery, such as cataract surgery
- Had an eye injury
- Have a family history of retinal detachment
- Have diabetes or high blood pressure
For more background on how diabetes can affect your sight, read How Diabetes and High Blood Pressure Impact Eye Health.
What Happens at the Exam?
Your visit is careful and comfortable. We will likely:
- Check your vision and side vision
- Dilate your pupils to see the retina clearly
- Use retinal photos or an OCT scan to look for tears, holes, or swelling
- Review your symptoms and risk factors
If there is a retinal tear, you may be referred for quick laser treatment or freezing treatment to seal it. If there is a retinal detachment, surgery is needed right away. If you have a common age-related change called a posterior vitreous detachment without a tear, we will show you warning signs to watch for and plan follow-up.
Can Cataracts Cause Floaters?
Cataracts do not cause floaters. Cataracts make the lens of the eye cloudy and can cause glare or halos, not spots that move. If you are noticing glare at night along with vision that looks foggy, learn more in Cataracts: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options.
Simple Ways to Protect Your Vision
- Schedule regular comprehensive eye exams
- Wear eye protection during sports and yard work
- Manage health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure
- Call right away for new floaters, new flashes, or any curtain in your vision
Ready to Get Checked?
If you are seeing new floaters or flashes, do not wait. A quick, painless exam can give you answers and a plan. Our team is here to help you protect your sight and feel confident about your eye health. Schedule your eye exam today!