Flashes and Floaters: When They’re a Sign of an Emergency

Noticing sudden flashes of light or small specks drifting across your vision can be alarming. While occasional floaters are often harmless, there are times when these visual disturbances signal a more serious problem that requires immediate attention. Understanding what causes flashes and floaters and when to seek help from an eye doctor in Sugar Land is key to protecting your vision.

What Are Flashes and Floaters?

Floaters appear as small shapes, dots, or cobweb-like strands that move across your field of vision. They’re actually tiny clumps or strands of the gel-like substance (vitreous) inside the eye casting shadows on your retina. Floaters are quite common and often develop with age as the vitreous naturally changes consistency.

Flashes, on the other hand, appear as brief bursts or streaks of light - similar to seeing “lightning” in your peripheral vision. These occur when the vitreous tugs on or pulls away from the retina.

When to Be Concerned

While most floaters and flashes are harmless, a sudden increase in either can be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment - serious conditions that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.

Seek emergency eye care in Sugar Land right away if you experience any of the following:

•           A sudden onset or rapid increase in floaters

•           Flashes of light that persist or intensify

•           A dark shadow or curtain moving across your vision

•           Blurred or distorted vision

•           Sudden loss of peripheral vision

These symptoms may indicate that your retina has been torn or is detaching from the back of your eye, which requires urgent medical treatment to prevent vision loss.

Common Causes of Flashes and Floaters

•           Aging: Most flashes and floaters are due to natural changes in the vitreous gel as we age.

•           Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): When the vitreous separates from the retina, it can cause both flashes and floaters.

•           Eye Injury: Trauma to the eye can increase the risk of retinal damage.

•           Inflammation or Bleeding: Conditions like uveitis or diabetic retinopathy can introduce floaters.

Protecting Your Vision

Even if your symptoms aren’t severe, it’s always best to have an eye care professional examine your eyes. A comprehensive dilated eye exam allows your optometrist to evaluate the health of your retina and detect any underlying problems early.

Regular eye exams are also important for detecting changes in the retina or vitreous before they cause symptoms. Adults over 40 - or anyone with risk factors such as diabetes, nearsightedness, or a history of eye trauma - should schedule routine checkups with their eye doctor in Sugar Land, TX.

Get Emergency Eye Care at Texas State Optical

Flashes and floaters aren’t always cause for alarm, but when they appear suddenly or change rapidly, they could be signs of a retinal emergency. Prompt evaluation is essential to prevent permanent damage and preserve your sight.
 

If you’re experiencing flashes, floaters, or sudden changes in your vision, contact Texas State Optical for emergency eye care. Visit our office in Sugar Land, Texas, or call (281) 238-5668 for further guidance.