Floater and flashes are common with age. Floaters appear as dots or cobwebs in the field of vision. These are usually benign but they be a sign of more serious conditions.
Vitreous detachment is the most common cause of floaters and flashes. There is a Jelly like substance called the Vitreous that fills the eye. This substance is normally attached to the Retina which is the seeing film of the eye. The retina is located in the back of the eye. With age the vitreous can detach from the Retina. This can happen suddenly and cause appearance of floaters and flashes. Usually this is a benign process and does not cause any harm to the eye or the vision. However, sometimes a tear or hole develops in the retina with a Vitreous Detachment. This is a more serious problem which needs treatment. If you notice sudden onset of floaters or flashes, then you need to be seen promptly. A detailed dilated examination is needed to look for retinal tears and holes. The floaters from vitreous detachment physically do not go away. Over time our brains get used to the floaters and these will become less noticeable. There are no drops or medicines for the treatment of floaters. In rare cases surgery can be performed to remove the vitreous although this is usually not recommended.
Retinal Detachment can present as flashes and floaters. This requires urgent evaluation and surgery. Floaters and flashes can also be caused by other retinal diseases, hemorrhage, inflammation, optic nerve disorders, and migraines.
If you notice floaters, flashes, or a dark curtain covering your vision, then you should be seen promptly.
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