WHAT WE TREAT
Flashes and Floaters
Flashes and floaters are common visual symptoms that can occur independently or together.
About Flashes and Floaters
Overview
Flashes and floaters are common visual symptoms that can occur independently or together. While they are often harmless signs of age-related changes within the eye, they may occasionally indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which requires prompt evaluation. At Lakes Region Retina, we are dedicated to providing thorough diagnostic evaluation and treatment to protect your vision and ensure long-term eye health.
Causes
The most common cause is posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)—a normal aging process in which the vitreous gel liquefies and separates from the retina. As the vitreous pulls away, small clumps or strands form within the gel and cast shadows on the retina, appearing as floaters.
Other, more serious causes include:
- Retinal tears or detachments
- Vitreous hemorrhage (bleeding inside the eye)
- Infections or inflammatory eye diseases
Treatment Options From LRR
Treatments
Most flashes and floaters do not require treatment and tend to become less noticeable overtime as the brain adapts. At Lakes Region Retina, our specialists have extensive experience diagnosing and treating these conditions using state-of-the-art retinal imaging and surgical techniques.
If an underlying retinal tear, detachment, or other condition is detected, treatment may include:
- Laser photocoagulation – uses focused light energy to seal retinal tears and prevent detachment
- Cryotherapy (freezing treatment) – creates a scar around the retinal tear to secure it in place
- Pneumatic retinopexy – an in-office procedure involving injection of a small gas bubble to reattach the retina in select cases
- Vitrectomy or scleral buckle surgery – operating-room procedures used to repair retinal detachments
More To Know
Are Floaters and Flashes Dangerous?
Most floaters and flashes are benign. However, a sudden increase in their number or frequency—especially if accompanied by a shadow, curtain, or loss of peripheral vision—can indicate a retinal tear or detachment. These are urgent medical conditions that require evaluation by a retina specialist.
If you experience any symptoms below—seek prompt medical attention:
- A sudden shower of new floaters
- Bright, persistent flashes of light
- A dark shadow or curtain moving across your vision
Prognosis
For most people, floaters gradually become less bothersome with time. However, because flashes and floaters can sometimes signal a sight-threatening retinal event, timely evaluation is the best way to ensure a healthy long-term visual outcome.
Flashes
Flashes appear as brief bursts or streaks of light in your vision—often described as sparks, lightning streaks, or fireworks. They are usually more noticeable in dark environments and may occur with eye movement. Flashes are caused when the vitreous gel (the clear, jelly-like substance that fills the eye) pulls on the retina, stimulating it mechanically. This pulling sends signals to the brain that are interpreted as flashes of light, even though no external light source is present.
Another possible cause of flashing lights is an ocular migraine. Ocular migraines typically cause shimmering or zigzag light patterns, kaleidoscopic shapes, or blind spots lasting 10–20 minutes, often without an accompanying headache. These usually resolve on their own.
Floaters
Floaters are small specks, cobwebs, or shadowy shapes that move across your field of vision. They are most noticeable when looking at a plain background, such as a white wall or a bright sky.
Prepare For Your Visit
If you already have an appointment made, we look forward to providing your care! If you need an appointment or have questions, please reach out to the Lakes Region Retina care team.
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