Flashes can appear as random flashing lights in your field of vision. As you age, occasional flashes may become more common, but the appearance of new random flashes should be checked by your eye doctor immediately. Random new flashes or floaters can indicate a detached retina, which is a serious condition that must be treated promptly.
Floaters may appear as small lines or cobwebs in your field of vision. While floaters may seem to be in your central vision, they are floating around your eyes. Floaters are more likely to appear if you are nearsighted or have had eye inflammation.
Most flashes and floaters aren’t severe, but you should contact us right away if:
- You notice many new floaters
- You have an increased amount of flashes
- A gray curtain covers part of your vision
- A shadow appears in your peripheral vision