Vision changes can be a bit disconcerting. Here’s why you might be experiencing spots or flashes.

“Floaters” or flashes in the eye are a fairly common occurrence. Of course, if you are experiencing this, you may be wondering if this is something you can get rid of, or if it’s something to be concerned about. Here’s what you should know about light flashes and spots in your vision, and when you may want to visit Skowron Eye Care in Elmhurst, IL, for medical eye care and evaluation.
 

What are eye floaters?

This is fairly common as people grow older, as the fibers within the vitreous (the clear fluid inside the eye) begin to clump. Floaters can take on different sizes and shapes, from dots and lines to spiderwebs.
 

What are the flashes?

Just as you can imagine, flashes look like a camera flash has gone off in your field of vision. Most of the time flashes and floaters go together and you may experience flashes in vision after closing your eyes or during the middle of the night.
 

When should I see an eye doctor?

So, when do floater and flashes in your vision warrant seeing a doctor? If you’ve had these issues for years, then chances are good that you won’t need to see an eye doctor to find out what’s going on; however, if you suddenly notice floaters or flashes in your vision and you’ve never had them before, then it’s time to see your eye doctor.

Flashes are often more of a concern for eye doctors than floaters, as this could be a sign of infection, inflammation, or tearing of the retina, which can increase the risk for a retinal detachment (which requires emergency medical care).
 

Finding Eye Care in Elmhurst, IL, During the Pandemic

While we are still providing eye care to our patients here in Elmhurst, IL, at this time, there are some changes we have made to our schedule. We are always available for urgent and emergency appointments; however, we are limiting the number of patients we see to no more than two per hour.

Extreme care is being taken to ensure that our office is completely disinfected to protect our patients when coming into the office. If you are having issues with your vision and you need to schedule an immediate appointment, please call Skowron Eye Care at (630) 834-6244.