FLASHES AND FLOATERS

 

INSIDE THE EYE IS JELLY-LIKE SUBSTANCE CALLED THE VITREOUS HUMOUR.

 

Within the vitreous, debris can be floating around which can cast shadows on the retina, the back surface of the eye. This debris is called floaters which are generally small and can be noticed against plain pale backgrounds like white paper, white walls and blue clear sky. They can move randomly especially when you move your eye around.

Most floaters are natural and safe. Occasionally they can indicate that the vitreous is separating from the retina, which is called a Vitreous Detachment. Sometimes, this can be a sign that a tear or hole in the retina has developed. These changes are normally painless, and can be associated with flashing lights in your vision.
These symptoms are more common with patients who are short sighted (myopic) or in certain environments for example playing contact sports like rugby and boxing. If you experience these symptoms, we advise you to come and have an eye examination urgently.