At Retina Partners of Florida, our retina specialists—Dr. Daniel Kiernan, Dr. David Misch, and Dr. Richard Hamilton—provide expert diagnosis and treatment for Flashes and Floaters. With locations in Lakeland, Winter Haven, and Sebring, we offer advanced eye care to help preserve your vision and address any underlying conditions associated with these symptoms.
What Are Flashes and Floaters?
Floaters are small specks, strings, or cobweb-like shapes that drift across your field of vision. They are more noticeable when looking at a bright, plain background, such as a clear sky or a white wall. Floaters are usually caused by tiny clumps of cells or fibers in the vitreous (the gel-like substance inside your eye) that cast shadows on the retina.
Flashes are brief streaks of light or lightning-like flashes in your vision. They occur when the vitreous pulls on the retina, stimulating the light-sensitive cells. While occasional flashes and floaters are common, sudden onset or an increase in these symptoms can indicate a more serious issue, such as a retinal tear or detachment.
Symptoms of Flashes and Floaters
While occasional floaters and flashes are a normal part of aging, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- A sudden increase in floaters or large, dark floaters
- Flashes of light in one or both eyes
- A shadow or curtain moving across your vision
- Blurred or distorted vision
These symptoms can be warning signs of a retinal tear or detachment, which require prompt treatment to prevent vision loss.
Causes of Flashes and Floaters
Flashes and floaters are commonly caused by changes in the vitreous gel that occur with age, but they can also be linked to other conditions, including:
- Aging: As we age, the vitreous shrinks and pulls away from the retina, leading to floaters. This condition is called posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).
- Retinal Tears or Detachments: Sudden flashes or an increase in floaters can indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
- Eye Trauma: Injuries to the eye or head can cause the vitreous to shift, leading to flashes and floaters.
- Inflammation: Conditions such as uveitis (inflammation in the eye) can cause floaters.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: Damage to the blood vessels in the retina due to diabetes can lead to floaters.
Advanced Treatment Options for Flashes and Floaters
At Retina Partners of Florida, Dr. Daniel Kiernan, Dr. David Misch, and Dr. Richard Hamilton use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to evaluate flashes and floaters. If the symptoms are related to a more serious condition like a retinal tear or detachment, we offer the following treatment options:
- Observation: In many cases, floaters are harmless and do not require treatment. Regular monitoring and follow-up exams ensure that the condition is stable.
- Laser Photocoagulation: If a retinal tear is detected, laser surgery can be used to seal the tear and prevent it from developing into a retinal detachment.
- Vitrectomy Surgery: For severe floaters that are impairing vision or if a retinal detachment is present, a vitrectomy may be performed. This involves removing the vitreous gel and replacing it with a saline solution to eliminate floaters and repair any retinal damage.
Why Choose Retina Partners of Florida for Flashes and Floaters Treatment?
- Expert Retina Specialists: Our board-certified retina specialists—Dr. Daniel Kiernan, Dr. David Misch, and Dr. Richard Hamilton—have extensive experience diagnosing and treating conditions related to flashes and floaters.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor our treatment plans to each patient’s unique condition and vision goals, ensuring the best possible care.
- State-of-the-Art Diagnostics: We use advanced imaging technologies to assess the condition of your retina and vitreous, allowing for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
- Convenient Locations: With offices in Lakeland, Winter Haven, and Sebring, we make expert retina care easily accessible for patients throughout Central Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Flashes and Floaters
Are floaters normal?
Yes, floaters are common and typically harmless, especially as we age. However, a sudden increase in floaters or large, dark floaters may indicate a more serious issue, such as a retinal tear, that requires medical attention.
What causes flashes in the eye?
Flashes are usually caused by the vitreous pulling on the retina. While occasional flashes may be normal, persistent or sudden flashes can be a sign of retinal issues and should be evaluated by a retina specialist.
Can flashes and floaters be treated?
In many cases, floaters do not require treatment. However, if they are associated with a retinal tear or detachment, immediate treatment, such as laser surgery or vitrectomy, may be necessary to prevent vision loss.
Will floaters go away on their own?
Floaters often become less noticeable over time as the brain learns to ignore them. However, they usually don’t go away entirely. If floaters are impairing your vision, surgery may be considered.
Is surgery for floaters safe?
Vitrectomy surgery is generally safe, but as with any surgery, there are risks involved. Your retina specialist will discuss the potential benefits and risks with you before recommending surgery.
Does insurance cover treatment for flashes and floaters?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover treatment for flashes and floaters if they are related to a medical condition like a retinal tear or detachment. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
Schedule an Appointment for Flashes and Floaters Treatment
If you are experiencing flashes or floaters, it’s important to have your eyes evaluated to rule out any serious conditions. Contact Retina Partners of Florida today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Daniel Kiernan, Dr. David Misch, or Dr. Richard Hamilton at our Lakeland, Winter Haven, or Sebring locations.
