Floaters and Flashes
Floaters and flashes often occur with changes in the vitreous, the clear gel inside the eye.
While these symptoms are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate a retinal tear or detachment, serious eye conditions.
Let Dr. Robert Wooldridge at the Eye Foundation of Utah serving Salt Lake City, UT, diagnose your condition and develop a treatment plan.
Posterior Vitreous Detachment and the Risk of Retinal Detachment
Posterior vitreous detachment is a natural part of the aging process in which the vitreous thickens and pulls away from the retina. Usually this causes only mild symptoms, such as floaters and flashes that become less noticeable within several weeks. However, if the vitreous can't pull away from the retina properly, the retina can become torn.
A retinal tear can impact your vision and develop into a retinal detachment. A retinal detachment is a serious condition in which the retina is lifted from the back of the eye. Without fast intervention, retinal detachment can cause permanent blindness.
When to Contact an Eye Doctor
Experiencing floaters and flashes once in a while can be normal, but they can also indicate serious eye conditions. Contact our Murray ophthalmologist office serving all of Salt Lake City if:
- You notice a lot of new floaters.
- You notice a lot of flashes.
- A shadow appears in your side vision.
- You notice a gray curtain moving across your vision.
These symptoms can indicate a retinal detachment, a serious condition that requires immediate attention.
Excellent Reviews for Our Practice in Murray, UT
Roy
2023
The staff are all so nice and helpful. The doctor is very knowledgeable and nice as well. I really feel like they are looking out for my eye's well-being.
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Steven
2023
I have found Dr. Wooldridge and his staff to be highly professional. Dr. Wooldridge takes time to answer my questions and he always explains my situation and options clearly and completely. I have been in the foundation's care for over a decade now and have always been satisfied with their work.
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