Conditions We Treat

Flashes & Floaters

New or sudden flashes of light and floaters in your vision should always be evaluated promptly to rule out a retinal tear or detachment.

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What Are Floaters?

Floaters are small shapes — dots, threads, cobwebs, or shadows — that drift across your field of vision. They are caused by clumps or strands within the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. Most floaters are harmless and become less noticeable over time as the brain adapts. However, a sudden increase in floaters, especially when accompanied by flashes, requires urgent evaluation.

What Are Flashes?

Flashes appear as brief streaks or arcs of light, often at the peripheral (side) vision. They occur when the vitreous pulls or tugs on the retina. While occasional flashes can be benign, new or persistent flashes may signal vitreoretinal traction — a risk factor for retinal tear.

Posterior Vitreous Detachment

The most common cause of new floaters and flashes is a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) — a natural age-related process in which the vitreous gel separates from the retinal surface. PVD is usually benign, but in approximately 10–15% of cases it can cause a retinal tear at the time of separation.

When to seek care urgently: A sudden shower of new floaters, a curtain or shadow in your peripheral vision, or a dramatic increase in flashes should prompt same-day or next-day evaluation with a retina specialist.

What to Expect at Your Visit

A dilated fundus examination allows us to carefully examine the peripheral retina for tears, holes, or signs of early detachment. If a tear is found, it can often be treated immediately with laser or cryotherapy in the office to prevent progression to retinal detachment.

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