Have you ever been sitting around when out of nowhere you saw what appeared to be a cloud or a flash of light in your eyes? Don’t worry! These can be a sign of eye floaters and flashes that in most cases are harmless to your vision.
First of all, eye floaters appear to be specks or clouds moving in your field of vision and may become more apparent and noticeable when you are looking at a plain background. In actual fact, floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous. If you are seeing things that look little dots, circles, lines, clouds or cobwebs then you may have floaters.
Secondly, eye flashes appear to look like flashing lights or lightening strikes in your vision. These flashes occur when the vitreous gel inside your eye rubs or pulls on the retina. The length of time you experience flashers will depend on the damage that has been done to the retina. If all of a sudden you begin to notice the appearance of flashes in your vision you should visit your ophthalmologist immediately because your retina could be torn.
If you notice any of these symptoms you should see your ophthalmologist immediately:
- You notice sudden flashes of light
- When new or large floaters appear suddenly
- You experience the loss of your peripheral vision
- Your vision becomes blurred or distorted
Floaters are often times harmless and will fade over time or become less bothersome, requiring no treatment. However, if you have a retinal tear surgery is required to fix the problem.
If your vision has been affected or if you require eye care visit us at 7370 Turfway Rd. 3rd Floor, St. Elizabeth Medical Office Building, Florence, KY 41042.
Disclaimer:
This article is provided as an information resource and is not intended to replace advice from a qualified ophthalmologist. In all cases, contact your ophthalmologist for advice on any matter referenced in this document before making any decisions.
Connect With Us