Floaters and Flashes

Floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear, gel-like fluid that fills the inside of the eye. They can appear as little dots, circles, lines, clouds or cobwebs in the field of vision. Flashes occur when the vitreous gel rubs or pulls on the retina. They look like flashing lights or lightning streaks and can appear off and on for several weeks or months. Some floaters and flashes may be a symptom of a tear in the retina, which is a serious problem that could require surgery if left untreated. It’s important to contact your eye doctor if you develop new floaters or flashes, especially if you are over 45 years of age.