FLOATERS & FLASHES

THE MIDDLE OF THE EYE IS FILLED WITH A CLEAR FLUID CALLED VITREOUS, WHICH IS SIMILAR TO JELL-O. WITH AGE THIS FLUID CAN LIQUEFY CAUSING DEBRIS TO FLOAT FREELY CALLED FLOATERS.

At times, this detachment can pull some of the retina with it, creating a flash of light or lightening bolt. This could develop into a retinal detachment, which could be treated if caught within 48 hours.

One to a few floaters is normal, but increased numbers and associated flashes can indicate a tear. Sometimes patients refer to these floaters as “cob-webs” or “strings” in their vision.