Flashes and Floaters
Flashing lights and floaters (spots or strands) in your vision are common and generally harmless. Very occasionally, these can be a symptom of a retinal problem, which requires examination and treatment as soon as possible.
If you get any of the following symptoms, you should contact your local Black and Lizars Optometrist ASAP:
· A sudden increase in floaters, particularly if you also notice flashing lights
· A new, large floater
· A change in floaters or flashing lights following injury/trauma to the head/eye
· A shadow or curtain effect spreading across the vision of one of your eyes
If you are unable to contact us for any reason or if it is out of hours, please attend your nearest Accident + Emergency Dept. ASAP.
Floaters
Your eyeball is not a hollow space. It contains a jelly-like substance known as the Vitreous Humour which sits against the retinal surface. Over time, this jelly shrinks and separates into a watery fluid and collagen strands and dots. These strands and dots are what appear as floaters, which move as you move your eyes. They are often described as looking like “hairs” or “cobwebs”.
Floaters are very common and generally not a cause for concern. They are typically seen in myopic (short-sighted) or older eyes. Some people find that floaters can be a nuisance, but most people become used to them over time. They rarely cause problems with your vision and treatment is not generally necessary or recommended.
Flashes
Flashes are less common and usually occur when the Vitreous pulls on the retina during the separation process. A normal process of the Vitreous separating away from the retina is known as Posterior Vitreous Separation (PVS). You may experience flashes of light, usually in the most outer parts of your vision, and the symptoms do not last for any set length of time. They may be intermittent and more noticeable in a darkened room.
Some people can experience flashes or zig-zag lines before or during a migraine attack. This is known as Visual Aura.
The presence of flashes and floaters can sometimes be a sign of a Retinal Tear or Detachment. If you notice a sudden onset of flashes and/or floaters, then please contact your local Black and Lizars practice ASAP. If you are unable to get in touch with us or if it is out of hours, then please attend your nearest Accident and Emergency Dept. ASAP. An Optomap scan is a great tool in aiding to diagnose retinal tears and detachments.
Risk Factors for Retinal Detachment:
· Myopia (short-sighted)
· Previous eye surgery
· Previous eye injury
· Previous Retinal Detachment (in either eye)
· Certain retinal disease or degeneration
· Have a systemic disease such as Marfans Syndrome (a rare genetic disease, which affects the connective tissues including in the eye)
· Family history of retinal detachment
· Aged 50 or over
For more information, please see https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/floaters-and-flashes-in-the-eyes/