A doctor’s guide to Flashes & Floaters - Lasikindia

Posted by Dr Niteen Dedhia on November 11th, 2021

What are ‘ Flashes‘?

Have you ever seen flashes of light, stars, or streaks that are not really there? Everyone from time to time see a few of these flashes . Usually you see them in one eye at a time. Flashes are often caused when the vitreous (the gel filling the inside of your eye) pulls on the retina (a membrane that lines the inside of your eye).

Who gets ‘flashes‘?

As you age or if you are near-sighted (have fuzzy distance vision), you are more likely to see flashes. Sometimes, flashes are signs of other eye problems that need care.

What are ‘Floaters‘?

Floaters look like dark specks, clouds, threads, or spider webs moving through your vision. Most people see them once in a while. Floaters may be pieces of gel or other material floating inside your eye. They are usually harmless.

Who gets ‘floaters‘?

The older you get, the more likely you will notice floaters. An eye injury or surgery can also cause floaters. If floaters appear suddenly or greatly increase in number, they may be a sign of an eye problem that needs care.