Floaters and flashes: harmless or hazardous?

Floaters and flashes: harmless or hazardous?

Do you have disturbing spots, fine cobwebs or dull shadows appearing in your vision? Do you get occasional flashes of light in your eyes?

Most of us will experience floaters or light flashes from time to time – but what are they and should we be concerned?

EYEPRO General Manager, Chris Clark, says although most floaters are harmless and nothing more than a nuisance they may also indicate eye or general health issues.

“Our eyes are filled with fluid and a clear jelly called vitreous. As we age the vitreous becomes more liquid which allows particles to move freely and shadows are sometimes seen.

“These particles can be many different shapes and sizes and their shadows become what we refer to as ‘floaters’,” Chris says.

Often spots or floaters are more pronounced when looking at bright, clear light or a computer screen. They also appear as if drifting across the eye because they move when the eye moves.

“If you occasionally experience floaters but notice an increase in their number or size, or if curtain like shadows or large cobweb images suddenly appear you should consult your optometrist urgently,” Chris says.

“Flashes of light are also usually nothing to worry about. People of all ages will occasionally experience light flashes in dim light.”

However, if you suddenly develop a series of light flashes it is important you seek an urgent eye examination immediately.

This could indicate your vitreous is pulling away from the retina or that the retina itself is becoming dislodged from the inner back of the eye.

If you have any concerns at all about your floaters or flashes Chris recommends you pay a visit to your EYEPRO professional.

“While floaters and flashes are typically harmless, your optometrist is trained at detecting any signs of disease or injury that may stem from these visual disturbances.

“Regular comprehensive eye examinations will pickup any abnormalities early and help you stop or treat any eye damage before it’s too late,” Chris says.

EYEPRO is a network of New Zealand independently owned optometrists.

ENDS

© Scoop Media