Flashes and Floaters
If you’ve been experiencing flashes of light or seeing floaters in your vision, it’s important to understand the causes and available treatments. At the Center for Retina and Macular Disease, we offer specialized care to address these symptoms and prevent potential complications.
What Are Flashes and Floaters?
As we age, the vitreous gel inside our eyes begins to shrink and separate from the surface of the retina. This process, known as posterior vitreous detachment, occurs in 90 to 95% of the population. During this separation, the vitreous gel can lightly pull on the retina, causing light flashes or flashing lights that resemble lightning bolts in the side of your vision. These are known as eye flashes or occasional flashes.
As the vitreous gel collapses into the center of the eye, you might begin to notice eye floaters. These floaters are clumps of collagen and cells within the vitreous gel that now float freely inside the eye, casting shadows on the retina. This can be particularly noticeable when looking at a plain bright background, such as a clear sky.
Causes of Flashes and Floaters
While most cases of floaters are harmless, they can sometimes indicate a more serious condition. As the vitreous separates from the retina, it can occasionally cause a retinal tear—a small hole in the retina. If left untreated, this tear can lead to a retinal detachment.
A retinal detachment occurs when fluid from the front of the eye flows through the tear and gets underneath the retina, causing it to lift away from its normal position. This is a medical emergency, as permanent vision loss can occur if the retina is not reattached promptly. Cataract surgery and other factors can increase the risk of developing a retinal detachment.
Symptoms of a Retinal Tear Can Include:
- Sudden decrease in vision clarity
- Spots or lines appearing in vision
- Sudden onset of floaters
- Flashes of light in peripheral vision
- Blurred or distorted vision
Symptoms of Retinal Detachment Can Include:
- Sudden flashes of light
- A sudden increase in floaters
- Peripheral vision loss in one area
- A shadow or curtain over part of your vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Treatment for Retinal Tear and
Retinal Detachment
Treatment should begin as soon as possible after a retinal tear or detachment is diagnosed. Several methods are available to repair a detachment, and the prognosis for vision recovery depends on how long the retina was detached before treatment. In some cases, multiple surgeries could be necessary to successfully reattach the retina.
Treatment Options Can Include:
- Laser Surgery: A laser is used to create small burns around the retinal tear, sealing it and preventing fluid from passing through.
- Cryopexy: A freezing probe is applied to the outside of the eye to freeze the area around the retinal tear, creating a scar that seals the tear.
- Pneumatic Retinopexy: A gas bubble is injected into the eye, pressing the retina back into place. The patient might need to hold a specific head position for an extended period of time to keep the bubble in the right spot.
- Vitrectomy: The vitreous gel and any blood or debris inside the eye are removed and replaced with a clear solution to help the retina reattach. This is often used when there is a significant amount of scar tissue.
- Scleral Buckle: a silicone band can be sutured to the eye wall to help the retina reattach: in conjunction with laser, cryopexy and/or vitrectomy
The best treatment option depends on the severity of the detachment and other individual factors. Your eye doctor will determine the most appropriate method for your situation.
Potential Risks
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks associated with treating retinal tears and detachments. These can include infection, increased intraocular pressure, and the need for additional surgeries. However, the risks are often outweighed by the potential to prevent permanent vision loss. Our experienced team at the Center for Retina and Macular Disease takes every precaution to minimize these risks.
Signs You Should Meet with an Eye Specialist in the Center for Retina and Macular Disease
If you experience any of the following, it’s important to seek immediate evaluation and treatment:
- Sudden flashes of light or an increase in floaters
- A shadow or curtain over part of your vision
- A noticeable change in the size or number of floaters
- Pain or discomfort in the eye
- Difficulty seeing in low light conditions
Flashes and Floaters Treatment with Center for Retina and Macular Disease
At the Center for Retina and Macular Disease, our team specializes in the treatment of flashes, floaters, and related retinal conditions. With advanced techniques and a commitment to personalized care, our goal is to address the underlying causes of your symptoms and prevent serious complications like retinal detachment. Our experienced eye specialists provide comprehensive care, ensuring that each patient receives the best possible treatment for their condition.
If you’re ready to explore your treatment options for flashes and floaters, contact Center for Retina and Macular Disease today to schedule your consultation.