Patient Education
Vitreous Floaters & Flashes
Floaters are small spots, threads, or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your vision. Flashes are brief sparks or streaks of light.
Typical Symptoms
- Spots, dots, threads, or cobwebs drifting through vision
- Floaters that move when you move your eye
- Brief flashes of light, especially in side vision
- Flashes more noticeable in dim light or when eyes are closed
- A sudden dramatic increase in floaters
How It's Diagnosed
Dilated Eye Exam
A thorough dilated exam evaluates the vitreous and peripheral retina, looking for any tears, holes, or detachment caused by the vitreous pulling on the retina.
Ultrasound
Used if dense floaters prevent a clear view of the retina.
How It Affects Vision
Most floaters and flashes do not affect vision significantly and become less noticeable over time. However, if they are caused by a retinal tear that goes untreated, a detachment can develop and lead to serious vision loss.
Treatment Options
Observation
The vast majority of floaters from a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) — a normal aging event — require no treatment. They typically settle below the line of sight over weeks to months.
Laser Retinopexy
If floaters or flashes are caused by a retinal tear, laser treatment seals the tear and prevents a detachment from forming.
Vitrectomy
Surgical removal of the vitreous gel — and the floaters within it. Our surgeons at RAST are trained in vitrectomy for persistent, symptomatic floaters, and we perform the procedure routinely. Quality of life matters: when floaters meaningfully affect your daily activities and don't fade over time, vitrectomy is a treatment option we offer. If floaters are bothering you, call us to discuss whether the procedure may be right for you.
When to Seek Urgent Care
A sudden shower of new floaters, persistent light flashes, or a shadow or curtain in your vision warrants same-day evaluation. These symptoms can indicate a retinal tear or detachment requiring urgent treatment.
Call us: 210-615-7600