Floaters and flashes are common visual disturbances that can cause concern for many people. Understanding what these symptoms are and how they can affect your vision is important for maintaining good eye health. If you're experiencing floaters and flashes, it's important to seek the guidance of an eye doctor to determine the cause and ensure your eyes are healthy.

What Causes Floaters and Flashes?

Floaters and flashes can have various causes. Floaters are typically caused by tiny clumps of gel-like substance in the vitreous, the jelly-like fluid that fills your eyeball. As you age, the vitreous can become more liquid and shrink, causing it to pull away from the retina. This process can create floaters as the gel-like substance clumps together. 

Flashes, on the other hand, are often caused by the vitreous tugging on the retina, stimulating the nerve cells and creating the perception of light. In some cases, floaters and flashes can also be a result of eye injuries, inflammation, or retinal detachment.

While floaters and flashes are commonly associated with age-related changes in the vitreous, they can also be symptoms of other eye conditions. For example, floaters and flashes may occur in individuals with diabetic retinopathy, a condition that affects the blood vessels in the retina.

Additionally, certain inflammatory conditions and eye infections may present with these symptoms. It's important to consult with an eye doctor to determine the underlying cause of your floaters and flashes and receive appropriate treatment.

When to See an Optometrist

If you're experiencing floaters and flashes, it's important to know when to seek professional help. While occasional floaters and flashes are normal, an increase in their frequency or the sudden onset of a large number of floaters can be a sign of a more serious condition. If you notice a sudden shower of floaters or persistent flashes of light, it's essential to schedule an appointment with an optometrist. 

Additionally, if you experience other symptoms such as blurry vision, loss of peripheral vision, or eye pain, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. Your eye doctor will be able to evaluate your symptoms, perform a comprehensive eye examination, and determine the best course of action.

How Your Eye Doctor Can Help with Floaters and Flashes

Your eye doctor plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing floaters and flashes. During your appointment, your optometrist will perform a comprehensive eye examination, which may include assessing your visual acuity, examining the structures of your eye, and checking your eye pressure. They may also use specialized instruments to examine your retina and assess any potential damage or abnormalities. Based on the findings, your eye doctor will be able to determine the underlying cause of your floaters and flashes and recommend appropriate treatment options.

If your symptoms are significantly affecting your vision or quality of life, your eye doctor may recommend vitrectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the vitreous gel and replace it with a clear solution. Your eye doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks of any treatment options and help you make an informed decision.

Schedule Your Consultation with Clarity Vision Today

Floaters and flashes can be concerning, but they can be managed with the help of an eye doctor. Understanding the causes of these symptoms, as well as the potential underlying eye conditions, is essential for maintaining good eye health. Regular eye exams and early intervention are key to preventing further damage to your vision.

Schedule an appointment with our eye doctor to address any concerns you may have regarding floaters and flashes, visit Clarity Vision in our Suffolk, Virginia, office. Please call (757) 638-2015 to schedule today.