Flashes & Floaters
Flashes and floaters are common visual phenomena that can occur within the eye and are often associated with the vitreous, a gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina.
Flashes are brief bursts of light perceived in the visual field, resembling quick sparks or lightning-like streaks. They typically occur when the vitreous tugs on the retina, stimulating its light-sensitive cells.
Floaters appear as small, dark specks or shapes that seem to drift or "float" across the field of vision. These are actually tiny clumps of gel or cellular debris within the vitreous, casting shadows onto the retina. While flashes and floaters are often harmless and common as people age, sudden onset or an increase in their frequency could signal more serious issues, such as retinal detachment, and should prompt immediate medical attention.