Seeing occasional specks, cobwebs, or streaks of light in your vision can be unsettling. These visual disturbances, often described as flashes and floaters, are common and usually harmless, but in some cases they can be an early warning sign of more serious conditions. Floaters are tiny shadows cast on the retina by small clumps of gel or cells inside the eye, while flashes are brief streaks of light caused by the vitreous tugging on the retina.
At Cornerstone Eye Associates, patients experiencing flashes and floaters receive careful evaluation to ensure their eyes remain healthy. Dr. Claire Y. Chu, a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 15 years of teaching experience at UT Southwestern and recognition in D Magazine’s Best Doctors List, offers trusted expertise. With compassionate care and advanced diagnostic tools, Dr. Chu helps patients in Dallas and Richardson understand the cause of their symptoms and determine whether treatment is needed.
What Are Flashes and Floaters?
Floaters appear as small spots, strings, or cobweb-like shapes that drift across the field of vision. They are especially noticeable when looking at a bright background, such as a clear sky or white wall. Flashes, on the other hand, are brief bursts of light often described as lightning streaks or flickering.
Both occur naturally as the vitreous gel inside the eye changes with age. However, sudden increases in flashes or floaters may signal a retinal tear or detachment, which requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms to Watch For
Most people experience occasional flashes and floaters, but it’s important to recognize when they may be a cause for concern. Warning signs include:
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters
- Frequent or persistent flashes of light in one or both eyes
- Dark shadows or a “curtain” effect moving across the visual field
- Loss of side vision or distorted central vision
If any of these occur, prompt evaluation is essential to protect your eyesight.
Causes of Flashes and Floaters
In many cases, flashes and floaters are related to the natural aging process, but they may also result from:
- Posterior vitreous detachment, when the vitreous gel pulls away from the retina
- Retinal tears or detachment, which can threaten permanent vision loss if untreated
- Eye trauma or injury, leading to bleeding or disruption of the vitreous
- Inflammation or infection, which can release debris into the vitreous cavity
An eye exam, often with dilated pupils, helps determine the cause and guide next steps.
Treatment Options for Flashes and Floaters
Most floaters do not require treatment and may become less noticeable over time as the brain adapts. When floaters are severe, laser therapy or vitrectomy surgery may be considered, though these are less common. Flashes related to retinal problems require immediate intervention, such as laser repair or surgery, to prevent vision loss.
At Cornerstone Eye Associates, Dr. Chu evaluates each case individually, ensuring patients understand whether their flashes or floaters are benign or if urgent treatment is necessary.
Why Choose Cornerstone Eye Associates for Eye Health
Dr. Claire Y. Chu brings extensive expertise in retinal and refractive eye health, supported by advanced training at UC Berkeley, Baylor College of Medicine, and UT Southwestern. Her role as a clinical instructor for over 15 years and her recognition in D Magazine highlight her commitment to excellence in patient care.
Cornerstone Eye Associates emphasizes a patient-focused approach, where every concern is taken seriously and explained clearly. With advanced diagnostic imaging, modern facilities, and locations in both Dallas and Richardson, patients receive attentive care and peace of mind close to home.
Flashes and Floaters Evaluation in Dallas and Richardson, TX
If you are noticing flashes of light or new floaters in your vision, it is important to have your eyes evaluated. At Cornerstone Eye Associates, Dr. Claire Y. Chu and her team provide comprehensive exams and advanced care for patients in Dallas and Richardson. To schedule your consultation, call the Dallas office at (972) 803-5665 or the Richardson office at (972) 803-5665 and take the first step toward protecting your vision.
