Have you ever noticed tiny specks, threads, or cobweb-like shadows drifting across your vision? Or perhaps you've seen brief flashes of light, almost like camera flashes, even when the room is dark. These visual symptoms are common experiences for many people. But what causes them, and when should you be concerned?
 

What Are Eye Floaters and Flashes?

Floaters are small, shadowy shapes that seem to move around in your field of vision. They are most noticeable when looking at a plain, bright background, such as a blue sky or a white wall. Floaters are usually caused by tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous; the clear, gel-like substance that fills your eyeball.
 

Flashes appear as sudden bursts or streaks of light in your vision. These can be especially noticeable in dim lighting or when you close your eyes. Flashes are typically caused by the vitreous gel tugging or pulling on the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye.
 

Common Causes of Flashes and Floaters

Many times, floaters and flashes are harmless and related to natural changes in the eye as we age. The vitreous gel can shrink and become more liquid, causing it to pull away from the retina; a process called posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). This is a normal part of aging and is very common in people over 50.
 

Other possible causes include:

• Nearsightedness (Myopia): People who are nearsighted are more likely to notice floaters.

• Eye injuries: Trauma can disturb the vitreous and lead to new floaters or flashes.

• Eye surgeries or inflammation: Procedures or inflammation inside the eye can also trigger these symptoms.
   

When to See Your Eye Doctor

While most floaters and flashes are not cause for alarm, some situations require prompt attention. Contact Skowron Eye Care right away if you notice any of the following:

• A sudden increase in floaters or flashes

• The appearance of a dark curtain or shadow in your vision

• Loss of peripheral vision

• Any sudden change in your vision
   

These symptoms could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent vision loss.
 

The Importance of Routine Eye Exams

Even if your floaters and flashes seem minor, routine eye exams are essential for protecting your vision. Many serious eye conditions, including retinal problems, can develop with few or no early warning signs. Regular visits to your eye doctor help catch issues early - before they become more difficult to treat.
 

Preventive eye care not only addresses new symptoms but also helps monitor the overall health of your eyes. Early detection is key to maintaining clear, healthy vision throughout your life.
 

Don’t Ignore Changes in Your Vision

Floaters and flashes are common experiences, especially as we get older. While most are harmless, a sudden change or increase in these symptoms could signal a more serious problem. Routine eye exams are the best way to safeguard your vision and catch issues before they become emergencies.

If you’re noticing new floaters or flashes, contact Skowron Eye Care to address your concerns and protect your eyesight. Visit our office in Elmhurst, Illinois, or call (630) 834-6244 to book an appointment today.