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Floaters and Flashes

Floaters and Flashes

Floaters appear as small specks or clouds moving in your field of vision.  Floaters are actually tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear jelly-like fluid that fills the inside of your eye.  You should call your ophthalmologist right away if you suddenly develop new floaters, especially if you are over 45 years of age.

When the vitreous shrinks it tugs on the retina and creates a sensation of flashing lights.  The flashes of light can appear off and on for several weeks or months.  As we grow older, it is more common to experience flashes.  If you notice the sudden appearance of light flashes, you should call your ophthalmologist immediately.