Most floaters are harmless, but a sudden shower of new floaters, flashes of light or a curtain over your vision can mean a retinal tear or detachment. That needs an eye examination the same day.
What floaters are
Floaters are small specks, threads or cobwebs that drift across your vision, most noticeable against a white wall or blue sky. They are shadows cast on the retina by clumps in the vitreous, the clear gel that fills the eye. They become more common after 50 and in people who are short-sighted.
What flashes are
Flashes look like brief streaks of lightning, usually at the edge of vision and more noticeable in the dark. They happen when the vitreous gel tugs on the retina.
Usually harmless
- Floaters you have had for months or years that have not changed
- A few floaters that slowly become less noticeable
Get your eyes checked the same day if you notice
- A sudden increase in floaters, especially many tiny dots
- New flashes of light
- A shadow or curtain moving across part of your vision
- Sudden blurred vision along with floaters
These can be signs of a retinal tear. Caught early, a tear can often be sealed with a laser in a short outpatient procedure. Left untreated, it can lead to retinal detachment, which needs surgery and can cause permanent vision loss.
Who is at higher risk
- People with high minus power (myopia)
- Anyone who has had a retinal tear or detachment in the other eye
- People who have had eye surgery, including cataract surgery
- After a blow to the eye or head
- A family history of retinal detachment
What happens at the examination
The doctor dilates your pupils with drops and examines the whole retina, including the far edges where tears usually occur. It takes about an hour. Bring sunglasses and don’t drive yourself home.
Floaters FAQs
Can floaters go away on their own?
Many become less noticeable over months as the brain learns to ignore them. Floaters themselves rarely need treatment.
Are flashes always serious?
Not always, but new flashes should always be checked because you cannot tell a harmless pull from a tear without an examination.
Do eye drops help floaters?
No. There are no drops that remove floaters.
Worried about new floaters or flashes? Call 080 2356 2299 or read about our retina services.
