Definition: Floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous (the clear, jelly-like fluid that fills the inside of the eye). They appear to be small specks or clouds that are suspended in mid-air. Floaters may appear as little dots, circles, lines, clouds or cobwebs.
Flashes are the sensation of flashing lights, lightning streaks, or "seeing stars".
Causes: With the approach of middle age, the vitreous gel may start to shrink, forming clumps or strands inside the eye. The gel pulls away from the back wall of the eye, causing a posterior vitreous detachment which is a common cause of floaters.
Flashes occur when the vitreous gel rubs or pulls on the retina.
Caution: The retina can tear when the shrinking vitreous gel begins to pull away from the wall of the eye. This sometimes causes a small amount of bleeding in the eye that may appear as new floaters. A torn retina is always a serious problem since it can lead to retinal detachment. An ophthalmologist should be consulted as soon as possible should there be a sudden appearance of even one new floater, sudden flashes of light, or loss of side vision.
Note: The information on this website is not a substitute for professional care. If you are having any problems with your eyes, you should see your ophthalmologist or optometrist for diagnosis and treatment.
Dr. Baudo's patient shares her story about flashes leading to a retinal detachment
Information for this section has been reviewed and approved prior to posting by Florida Eye Institute in Vero Beach, Florida. Physicians: Dr. Baudo.
