Eye Floaters and Flashes in Boca Raton, FL

Abnormal objects in your vision field, such as specks, lines, or clouds, are referred to as floaters. Floaters are actually small clumps of vitreous gel, which is the fluid that fills the middle of the eye between the lens and the retina. Flashes, which are similar to the lights you may see after standing up too quickly or being hit in the head, occur when the vitreous gel rubs on the retina. Eye floaters and flashes are very common and are not necessarily a cause for alarm, but if you are experiencing them, then it is important to be evaluated by a professional. Contact our friendly team at Clewner & Kelly Eye Center, and schedule a comprehensive eye exam at our location in Boca Raton, FL.

Eye floaters and flashes become more apparent as we age. Even so, a few symptoms can warrant an appointment with your ophthalmologist. Some of these symptoms include:

• Any new or large floaters appearing suddenly
• Persistent flashes of light in the vision
• A loss of side vision (where it seems like a shade is covering your vision)
• Bursts of light that resemble camera flashes

When you need treatment for eye flashes and eye floaters in Boca Raton, FL, we can help. Reach out to our team, and we'll schedule an appointment to have your vision assessed.

Floaters and flashes may be caused by normal aging of the eye or a recent vision surgery. A sudden increase in floaters and flashes could be a more serious problem and should be evaluated by an eye professional. Other possible causes of floaters and flashes include:

• A release of blood cells from the retina
• Vitreous detachment
• Eye inflammation
• Retinal tear or detachment

Severe myopia (nearsightedness) is a risk factor for flashes and floaters and retinal tear or detachment. Should the cause of your floaters and flashes be a retinal tear or detachment, immediate medical attention is required. Your treatment options will be discussed after a thorough exam and a diagnosis is made.

Various things can cause eye floaters and flashes. However, some risk factors could make a person more at risk for getting flashes or floaters. Some of those factors include:

• Nearsightedness (myopia)
• Having cataract surgery
• Eye inflammation
• Being diabetic
• Eye injury
• Age

Eye floaters and flashes are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam performed by an ophthalmologist. During the exam, the eye doctor will dilate your pupils to get a clear view of the retina and vitreous, checking for any abnormalities or signs of retinal detachment. Additional diagnostic tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or ultrasound imaging, may be used to provide detailed images of the eye's internal structures. These evaluations help determine the cause and severity of the floaters and flashes, guiding appropriate treatment and management.

A majority of the time, an eye flash or floater is the cause of an underlying condition. Whether they occur because of migraines, or a sudden injury, the root cause is determined before treatment starts. Initial treatment may involve examining the retina to treat conditions like retinal tears or detachments. But in some cases, a more involved treatment may be necessary. Eye floaters treatment may include the following:

Laser therapy: A laser breaks up the floaters and flashes to move them out of your field of vision.

Vitrectomy: this treatment removes the gel-like vitreous from inside the eye and replaces it with a solution that mimics it. Removing this gel provides better access to repair the eye if needed.

When are eye floaters and flashes a cause for concern?
Some eye flashes and eye floaters are normal and are usually quite harmless. A sudden increase in eye floaters in vision or a burst of flashes can mean a serious eye health concern and should be evaluated by a professional. See your eye doctor in Boca Raton, FL, if you are concerned about an increase in floaters or flashes.

How long do eye floaters last?
Eye floaters are typically permanent, but you will likely notice them less over time. If you have a particularly large or disruptive floater, it may be able to be treated with a laser procedure to remove it. Contact your eye doctor for more information about treatment for eye floaters in Boca Raton, FL.

What's the difference between eye floaters and flashes?
Eye floaters are caused by small clumps of vitreous gel casting shadows on the retina, while eye flashes occur when the vitreous gel rubs on the retina. Some floaters and flashes are normal. Please see your eye doctor in Boca Raton, FL, if you have experienced a sudden increase in floaters and flashes.

Can lifestyle changes reduce the occurrence of eye floaters and flashes?
While lifestyle changes alone cannot eliminate eye floaters and flashes, maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants can help support overall eye health. Avoiding activities that strain the eyes, such as excessive screen time, might also help minimize the discomfort associated with these visual disturbances. Always consult with an eye care professional in Boca Raton, FL, for personalized advice.

Is there a connection between stress and eye flashes or floaters?
Stress itself does not directly cause eye flashes or floaters, but it can exacerbate the frequency of noticing them. High-stress levels can lead to tension in the eye muscles and changes in blood pressure, which might make you more aware of floaters and flashes. If you notice a sudden increase or they become bothersome, it is important to discuss these symptoms with your eye doctor.

Are eye flashes and floaters more common as you age?
Yes, eye flashes and floaters are more common in older adults. This is due to natural changes in the vitreous gel that occur as you age, making it more liquid and less gel-like. These changes can lead to the formation of more floaters and increase the likelihood of the vitreous gel pulling away from the retina, causing flashes. If you notice a sudden onset of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention from your eye care provider in Boca Raton, FL.

While the majority of floaters and flashes will go away on their own, it is important to seek prompt attention for any changes in your vision. Our experienced specialists at Clewner & Kelly Eye Center offer the latest in technology for diagnosing and treating all manner of concerns related to eye health. If you have had an increase in floaters and flashes in Deerfield Beach, Ft. Lauderdale, Delray, Parkland, or Pompano, then contact our friendly team in Boca Raton, FL to schedule your comprehensive eye exam.