While many of us note the occasional
floater, the presence of new floaters or flashes of light may signal
a sight threatening event. Floaters and flashes are caused by the
vitreous gell that fills the eye and lies against the retina.
Normal floaters are caused by vitreous degeneration. As we age, the
vitreous gel begins to degenerate into clumps of proteinaceous material
which floats in the eye. With time, the gel will separate from the
retina. As the gel separates, it may pull on the retina. The mechanical
pull leads to the sensation of light flashes. In some cases, the pulling
may cause a retinal tear or a blood vessel may tear leading
to the sensation of large floaters.
A patient with new floaters or flashes
should be examined promptly since these signs may indicate a retinal
tear. With early diagnosis the tear may be treated with laser surgery
or a freezing therapy termed cryotherapy. This will reduce the chance
or the tear progressing to a retinal detachment.
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