A floater in one's vision may be innocuous or may be serious, depending on the type. The great majority of "spots" in ones vision are annoying but harmless tiny opacities in the vitreous humor of the eye. However, when a new floater develops, patients should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist to determine the underlying cause.

 
     
 

A posterior vitreous separation is the most common cause of new floaters in the aging eye and may occasionally be associated with retinal hole development, which requires immediate attention. Other common causes of floaters in the eye include uveitis and vitreous hemorrhage.

 
 
     
  Retinal detachment may produce a "shower" of floaters due to a torn retinal vessel and is sometimes preceded by a single large floater. Blind spots in the vision may be due to stroke or other neurological disorder.  
     
 

Flashes of light may be associated with a number of disorders, but they are most commonly caused by vitreous traction on retina.  The vitreous gel gives the eye form and shape.  In children, it has a thick consistency and is firmly attached to the retina.

  
 
     
 

As one ages, it gradually becomes thinner, causing it to separate from the retina.  This is called posterior vitreous separation, and is the most common cause of light flashes.  Even though it is usually harmless, posterior vitreous separation may sometimes cause a hole or tear in the retina, which may lead to retinal detachment.  New light flashes and floaters should prompt a dilated eye examination.  

Other less common causes of light flashes include migraine headaches and ocular migraine.  In rare situations, light flashes may indicate inflammatory or infectious disorders of the retina, as well as neurological disease.

If you are experiencing floaters or flashes, please contact our offices to schedule an examination by using the button below.

 
     
 
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