What is Flashes And Floaters?
Flashes are occasional flashes of light that may be seen with or without floaters. They may last for a few seconds or minutes and are usually intermittent. They are more prominent at night or in the dark. Typical migraine headache can be preceded by similar flashing lights, which appear as zigzag lines blocking part of the peripheral vision. They are usually seen in both eyes.
Floaters are small, mosquito-like shapes that appear to float in the field of vision. They are present by middle age as a normal part of aging. They may be seen earlier in people who are short sighted. Floaters cast shadows on the retina and appear as floating spots, which move with eye movement. Although annoying, floaters are usually harmless. They can seem to come and go. They may be barely noticeable at times and affect vision at other times.
Causes
The sudden appearance of flashes together with floaters can be due to shrinkage of the vitreous body. Parts of the vitreous become more solid (floaters) and other parts become more liquid. Flashes are due to the vitreous tugging or moving against the retina. Floaters are due to particles or thickening in the vitreous.
Treatment
Light flashes may be a symptom of other conditions such as retinal tear or detachment. Should there be a retinal tear present, early treatment is required to seal it to prevent retinal detachment. Retinal tears are usually treated with laser (photocoagulation). Tiny burns are made by the laser beam through a dilated pupil, around the tear to seal it. Larger tears may need to be repaired by cryotherapy (freezing). A small probe applied to the outside of the eye freezes the area around the hole forming a scar that seals it.
If fluid has entered the retinal tear and cause the retina to detach, surgery would be required. see retinal detachment
Small floaters are usually just annoying and not harmful. For most people, treatment is not required. Very large floaters obstructing vision can be surgically removed. A vitrectomy involves removing part of the vitreous gel of the eye and replacing it with salt solution. As serious complications are possible with vitrectomy, surgery for floaters is rarely performed.
Raffles Eye Centre offers full range of medical and surgical care for patients with eye diseases and vision disorders. From screening for myopia to cataract surgery, the Raffles Eye Centre caters to the visual and eyecare needs of patients of all ages.