What are floaters and flashes?
Floaters are moving spots, threads or cobweb-like shapes in the field of vision. Flashes are brief sparks or streaks of light that can occur when the vitreous gel pulls on the retina.
When should you seek urgent care?
A sudden increase in floaters, new flashes, a dark curtain or shadow, or sudden loss of vision may indicate a retinal tear or detachment and requires prompt ophthalmic assessment.
How are they examined?
The ophthalmologist may dilate the pupils to examine the vitreous and retina thoroughly. Many stable floaters do not need treatment, but new or changing symptoms should be checked to exclude retinal disease.