PATIENT EDUCATION
Flashes & Floaters: When to Call
Most floaters are caused by normal changes inside the eye—but a sudden change can be the first sign of a retinal tear or detachment.
New or sudden symptoms need prompt attention
Call us immediately for a sudden shower of new floaters, repeated flashes of light, a dark curtain or shadow, a new blind spot, or any sudden loss of vision. If you cannot reach an eye doctor and you have a curtain, shadow, or loss of vision, seek emergency care.
UNDERSTANDING THE SYMPTOMS
What are flashes and floaters?
The eye is filled with a clear gel called the vitreous. As the vitreous changes with age, small clumps or strands can cast shadows on the retina. These shadows appear as floaters. When the vitreous tugs on the retina, you may notice brief flashes of light.
Floaters
Spots, dots, circles, cobwebs, or thread-like shapes that drift as your eyes move. They may be easiest to notice against a bright sky or white background.
Flashes
Brief streaks, sparks, or lightning-like sensations—often in the side vision and sometimes more noticeable in dim light.
Curtain or shadow
A dark veil, missing area of vision, or sudden decrease in sight can signal retinal detachment and requires emergency evaluation.
A COMMON CAUSE
Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)
A posterior vitreous detachment occurs when the vitreous gel separates from the retina. PVD becomes more common with age and often causes a sudden onset of flashes or floaters. An uncomplicated PVD usually does not threaten vision, and symptoms often become less noticeable over time.
The important distinction: a PVD can sometimes create a retinal tear as it separates. Because the early symptoms can feel identical, a dilated eye examination is needed to tell the difference.
Who may be at higher risk?
Risk can be higher with significant nearsightedness, previous eye surgery, eye trauma, inflammation inside the eye, or a personal or family history of retinal tears or detachment.
YOUR EYE EXAM
Why an examination matters
Your eye doctor will review when the symptoms began, whether they are changing, and whether one or both eyes are affected. Eye drops are typically used to dilate the pupil so the peripheral retina can be examined for a tear, hole, bleeding, or detachment.
Uncomplicated PVD
No procedure is usually needed. You will receive instructions about symptoms that require another urgent evaluation, and follow-up may be recommended.
Retinal tear or hole
A tear may be sealed with laser treatment or cryotherapy to lower the chance that fluid will pass beneath the retina.
Retinal detachment
A detached retina generally requires urgent treatment. The recommended procedure depends on the location and extent of the detachment.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Flashes & floaters FAQ
Do floaters go away?
Floaters may remain, but many people notice them less as time passes. A sudden increase is different and should be evaluated promptly.
Can I wait for my next routine exam?
Not when symptoms are new, sudden, or worsening. Call right away so an eye-care professional can determine how urgently you need to be seen.
What if I already had a normal exam?
A retinal tear can occasionally develop after the first examination. Call again immediately if floaters or flashes increase or a curtain, shadow, or vision loss appears.
PATIENT EDUCATION VIDEO
Learn more about flashes and floaters
This video is provided for general education and does not replace an examination or individualized medical advice.
THE EYE CENTERS
Concerned about new flashes or floaters?
For new or worsening symptoms, call the office rather than relying on an online request. For routine care, you may request an appointment online.