Floaters • Flashes • Retinal Health
What Are Floaters and Flashes in Vision?
Seeing floating spots, flashes of light, or sudden visual changes can sometimes be harmless — but in certain cases, they may signal a more serious eye condition.
Floaters and flashes are common visual symptoms experienced by many people, especially with age. While occasional floaters may be normal, sudden increases or accompanying flashes should never be ignored.
At Upper West Optical, comprehensive eye exams help evaluate retinal health and identify whether floaters or flashes may require urgent medical attention.
What Are Eye Floaters?
Floating Shapes
Floaters may appear as tiny dots, cobwebs, threads, or drifting shadows in your field of vision.
Inside the Eye
Floaters are often caused by changes within the vitreous gel located inside the eye.
More Common With Age
Floaters may become more noticeable as part of the natural aging process.
What Causes Flashes of Light?
Brief Light Streaks
Flashes may appear as quick flickers, sparks, or lightning-like streaks in peripheral vision.
Vitreous Movement
Flashes may occur when the vitreous gel pulls against the retina inside the eye.
Potential Warning Sign
Sudden flashes with many new floaters can sometimes indicate a retinal tear or detachment.
Warning Signs That Need Immediate Attention
- Sudden increase in floaters
- Frequent flashes of light
- A shadow or curtain over vision
- Sudden blurry or distorted vision
- Loss of peripheral vision
- Visual changes in one eye
How Eye Exams Help Detect Retinal Problems
Retinal Evaluation
Comprehensive exams help evaluate the retina for tears, detachment, and other abnormalities.
Advanced Imaging
Retinal imaging technology may assist in monitoring changes inside the eye.
Personalized Care
Eye exams help determine whether symptoms are routine or require additional medical evaluation.
Don’t Ignore Sudden Vision Changes
While some floaters are harmless, sudden flashes or rapid changes in vision should always be evaluated promptly by an eye care professional.
At Upper West Optical, we provide comprehensive eye exams and retinal evaluations to help protect your long-term vision and eye health.
Schedule Your Eye Exam Today
If you notice sudden floaters, flashes of light, blurry vision, or other visual changes, schedule a comprehensive eye exam as soon as possible.
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