Flashes and Floaters

When to Get Your Eyes Checked

Seeing flashes of light or small "floating" shapes in your vision? While these symptoms are often harmless, they can sometimes be a sign of something more serious—especially if they appear suddenly or increase over time.

At Vision Care Associates, we take any changes in your vision seriously. Our team provides thorough eye exams to determine what’s causing your flashes and floaters and to rule out any urgent issues.

What Are Floaters?

Floaters are tiny spots, strings, or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your vision. They’re usually caused by small clumps of gel in the vitreous (the clear gel inside your eye). Floaters are common as you age, but a sudden increase may need quick attention.

What Are Flashes?

Flashes look like brief flickers or streaks of light. They may happen when the vitreous gel pulls on your retina. Frequent or new flashes could be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment, which is an emergency.

When to Call Us:

• A sudden increase in floaters or flashes

• A dark shadow or curtain in your vision

• Blurred or reduced vision

• Any rapid change in your eyesight

What We’ll Do:

We’ll perform a comprehensive dilated eye exam and retinal imaging to check for retinal damage or other issues. If needed, we’ll refer you to a specialist right away for treatment.

Don’t ignore flashes and floaters. Contact Vision Care Associates today to schedule an eye exam and keep your vision safe.