Flashes and Floaters

Flashes of light are caused by tension between the vitreous gel and the retina. As the vitreous gel pulls on the retina, the retina becomes stimulated, sending signals to the brain that are interpreted as flashes of light. With age, the vitreous gel liquefies and separates from the retina's surface. Condensations and imperfections in the vitreous gel may cast shadows on the retina that appear as fine dots, strands, and strings in your vision. Since these seem to float, they are called floaters.

Flashes and floaters are considered a normal consequence of aging, and tend to become less noticeable with time. However, patients should always be examined at the onset of these symptoms. Flashes and floaters can be a warning sign of more serious conditions, such as posterior vitreous detachment, retinal tear, or retinal detachment.