What are floaters?
Floaters are small shapes that appear to move across your vision. People describe them as dots, lines, threads, cobwebs or small shadows. They are usually easier to notice against a bright, plain background.
What are flashes?
Flashes can look like brief streaks, sparks or flashes of light, often toward the side of your vision. They may occur when the vitreous gel inside the eye pulls on the retina.
Common causes
Floaters commonly become more noticeable as the vitreous inside the eye changes with age. A posterior vitreous detachment is a frequent cause of new floaters and flashes. Other eye conditions can also cause similar symptoms, so new symptoms should not be self-diagnosed.
URGENT EYE CARE
When should I seek urgent care?
Seek urgent eye assessment if you develop sudden new floaters, a sudden increase in floaters, new flashing lights, a curtain or shadow across your vision, or sudden loss or reduction of vision. These symptoms can occur with a retinal tear or retinal detachment.
How are floaters and flashes examined?
An eye-care professional may dilate your pupils so the retina can be examined thoroughly. The aim is to identify whether the symptoms are associated with a retinal tear, detachment or another cause.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. Many uncomplicated floaters do not require treatment, while retinal tears and retinal detachments require specialist management. Your eye-care professional can advise you after examining your eyes.