Flashes & FloatersWhen to Worry
Floaters are little "cobwebs" or specks that drift through your field of vision. Flashes look like lightning streaks. Most are harmless, but sudden changes can signal a retinal emergency that needs immediate attention.
Don't Ignore Sudden Changes New floaters or flashes may indicate a retinal tear.
Contact Us Immediately If You Notice:
A sudden increase in floaters • New flashes of light • A shadow or curtain across your vision
Call (203) 635-2097 NowWhat Are Floaters?
Floaters are small, dark, shadowy shapes, spots, dots, or thread-like strands, that drift through your field of vision. They are caused by the vitreous, a gel-like substance filling the eye, slowly shrinking with age. The strands cast tiny shadows on the retina.
Most people have floaters and learn to ignore them. They are usually not noticed until they become numerous or more prominent, especially when looking at a bright background like white paper or a blue sky.
What Causes Flashing Lights?
When the vitreous gel rubs or pulls on the retina, you may see what look like flashing lights or lightning streaks, similar to seeing "stars" after being hit in the eye. Flashes can appear off and on for several weeks or months.
If you notice the sudden appearance of light flashes, contact your ophthalmologist immediately, this may indicate the retina has been torn. Flashes can also be caused by an ophthalmic migraine, even without headache symptoms.
When Are Floaters Serious?
When the shrinking vitreous gel pulls away from the wall of the eye, it can tear the retina. A retinal tear can lead to a retinal detachment, a serious condition that should always be considered an emergency. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent vision loss within two to three days.
Other serious causes of floaters include infection, inflammation (uveitis), hemorrhaging, and injury to the eye. For floaters that are simply annoying, no treatment is recommended, they often fade over time.
Floaters are more common in people who are very nearsighted, have diabetes, or have had a cataract operation.
Your Vision Is in Expert Hands
Jerry W. Tsong, M.D. is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Medical Retina Specialist at Greenwich Ophthalmology Associates. He graduated in the top 5% of his class at MIT, earned his medical degree from Harvard Medical School, and completed his fellowship at the world-renowned Doheny Eye Institute. Repeatedly named a "Top Doctor" by New York Magazine, Dr. Tsong brings exceptional expertise to patients with complex retinal conditions.
MIT & Harvard Educated
Doheny Eye Institute Fellow
Board Certified Ophthalmologist
NY Magazine Top Doctor
Fellowship-Trained Medical Retina Specialist
