Flashes & Floaters
When to Be Reassured and When to Act
Flashes and floaters are common visual symptoms that many people experience at some point in their lives. In most cases, they are harmless and related to natural changes inside the eye. However, in some situations, they can be an early warning sign of a more serious retinal condition. At IOES, our role is to assess these symptoms promptly, give you clarity, and ensure your vision is protected.
Symptoms
You may notice:
Floaters:
- Small shapes moving across your vision
- Dots, lines, strands, or cobweb-like shapes
- More noticeable against bright backgrounds such as the sky or a white wall
Flashes:
- Brief flashes of light or lightning-like streaks
- More noticeable in darker environments
- Often seen alongside floaters
Many people notice these symptoms suddenly, which can feel concerning. In most cases they are harmless, but they should always be assessed if they are new or changing.
Causes / Risk Factors
The most common cause is a natural ageing process inside the eye.
Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)
As we age, the gel inside the eye shrinks and separates from the retina.
- This can create floaters from small particles
- It can also cause flashes as the retina is gently stimulated
In most cases, this process is harmless and settles over time.
When to Seek Help
It is important to have your eyes assessed promptly if you notice:
- A sudden increase in floaters
- New flashes of light
- Blurred or reduced vision
- A shadow or curtain in your peripheral vision
These symptoms may indicate a retinal tear or detachment and should be assessed as soon as possible.
How It Is Diagnosed
At IOES, assessment is thorough, comfortable, and focused on your safety.
This may include:
- A detailed discussion of your symptoms
- A dilated retinal examination
- Advanced imaging to examine the retina closely
We will explain clearly what we find and whether any treatment is needed.
What Happens Next
In many cases, no treatment is required.
You may simply be advised to monitor your symptoms, as floaters often become less noticeable over time.
If a more serious issue is detected, we will guide you immediately on the appropriate next steps.
Light-Touch Treatment Overview
Treatment depends on the underlying cause:
- PVD usually requires observation only
- Retinal tears are often treated with laser therapy
- Retinal detachment requires surgical repair
Learn more about retinal treatments and what to expect.
Understanding Possible Conditions
Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)
A common and usually harmless age-related change that may cause floaters and flashes.
Retinal Tear
Occurs when the retina is pulled or weakened. This requires prompt treatment to prevent progression.
Retinal Detachment
A serious condition where the retina separates from the back of the eye and requires urgent surgical treatment.
Book Consultation
If you have noticed new or changing flashes or floaters, the most important step is to have your eyes checked. Book an urgent eye assessment and protect your vision with expert care.
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