What are Flashes and Floaters?
As eye issues can occur for a number of reasons, flashes and floaters are common images that move across an individual's field of vision. Appearing as dots, circles, lines, or specks, floaters can interfere with your site. Additionally, flashes appear as quick bursts of light within your vision. Both can be present due to the thickening of the vitreous gel or when the vitreous gel pulls away from the retina. Additional causes can be due to a:
- Retinal tear
- Eye infection
- Ocular tumors
- Hemorrhage
If you are experiencing flashes, floaters, or both, you should receive a thorough eye examination at Kirk Eye Center. Our skilled eye care professionals can help determine the cause of flashes and floaters and provide a necessary treatment option. Learn more by contacting one of our Chicago, IL area facilities today to schedule an eye exam.
What Are the Symptoms of Flashes and Floaters?
Flashes and floaters in vision can be concerning visual disturbances, often signaling changes within the eye's structure. Recognizing their symptoms can help you determine whether further evaluation is necessary, especially if they appear suddenly or worsen over time. Symptoms include:
- Sudden appearance of small, shadowy shapes or specks in vision
- Perception of flashes of light, particularly in peripheral vision
- Floating spots or lines that drift across the visual field
- Increased number or frequency of floaters
- Occasional brief flashes of light in dim lighting
- Blurred or hazy vision when focusing
- A dark curtain-like effect that partially covers the vision (in more serious cases)
What are Treatments for Flashes and Floaters?
Flashes and floaters often occur in patients over the age of 40 years old; however, they can develop at any age if underlying issues are present. While they can go away on their own, flashes and floaters may require treatment if an additional eye condition is detected. At Kirk Eye Center, our team will conduct a thorough eye exam to evaluate the health of your eyes. If any damage to your retina is detected, we can offer a number of different treatment options that can be personalized to your needs. Our goal is to ensure the overall health of your eyes and to restore as much vision as possible.
Kirk Eye Center Reviews
Great overall experience with my Lasik procedure for both my eyes. Dr. Kirk & the staff were fantastic throughout the entire process. I'm so pumped that I don't have to wear contacts or glasses ever again!
This is the second time I’ve been to Kirk Eye Center on Harlem. I could not be more pleased. I’ve never had to wait more than a minute or 2 after I arrive. Everyone is friendly and helpful. I’ve seen the technician Rose and Dr Kirk Jr both times and enjoyed being assisted by both. There is even plenty of parking. Glad to have them caring for my diabetic and other needs
This is absolutely no exaggeration. Dr Tyler Kirk saved my right eye. He is the reason I have vision in that eye. I will be a Kirk Eye Center customer for life!
Gurnee Kirk is my "go to home office". Recently had the Femto/Lasik cataract surgery at the surgical center in River Forest. I cannot begin to tell you how professional and yet personal everyone was I came in contact with. From the doctors and technicians, to staff and even the terrific van driver. Everything went so smoothly and I was informed every inch of the way in a very successful procedure. Even the followups being turned over to my long time Optometrist just down the street from me. Five stars is not enough... twenty or more is necessary. Choose Kirk Eye Center, you'll always be grateful you did. Darrell May, Antioch IL.
Had cataract surgery on both eyes and they took very good care of me would highly recommend them.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are eye floaters and flashes always serious?
In most cases, eye floaters and flashes are not severe and are a normal part of aging. However, in some cases, they can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment. If you are constantly experiencing flashes and floaters, it may be a sign that you should seek treatment.
When should I make an appointment with Kirk Eye Center for eye floaters and flashes?
You should see a doctor if:
- You experience many new floaters
- You see a lot of flashes
- A gray area obscures your vision
- A shadow appears in your peripheral vision
These could be signs of a retinal tear or detachment that requires immediate medical attention.
Are migraine headaches and eye flashes related?
Migraines and eye flashes may be related in some circumstances, as eye flashes or visual disturbances can sometimes be a migraine symptom. These symptoms, known as auras, can include flickering lights, zigzag lines, or blind spots in your field of vision. Auras usually last 20 – 60 minutes and are followed by a headache. However, not everyone who experiences migraines will have auras or eye flashes. Some people only experience migraines without any visual symptoms. If you experience eye flashes or other visual disturbances with your migraines, discussing this with Kirk Eye Center and/or your primary care physician is essential.
Restore Your Vision
Both flashes and floaters can interfere with your vision and affect your quality of life. Thankfully, our team at Kirk Eye Center is here to help. Our skilled eye care professionals can provide comprehensive evaluations and detect any underlying conditions to offer personalized treatment. Contact us in River Forest, Gurnee, or Chicago, IL, to schedule your initial consultation.