Floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous (clear gel that maintains the shape of the eye) that look like small specks, dots, circles, lines, or cobwebs in your field of vision. Flashes can look like flashing lights or lightning streaks in your field of vision. Flashes happen when the vitreous rubs or pulls on your retina.
How we treat Flashes and Floaters
If you are experiencing flashes or floaters, your eye doctor will most likely dilate your eyes in order to thoroughly evaluate your retina. Some conditions that cause flashes can be monitored by Dr. Tavel. Others, like retinal tears or detachments, require immediate referral to a retinal specialist.