Understanding Floaters and Flashes: How Dr. Marilyn Marquez at Tyson Eye Can Help
Have you ever noticed small, shadowy shapes drifting across your field of vision? Or perhaps you’ve seen sudden flashes of light, even in the dark? These experiences are often caused by floaters and flashes—common eye symptoms that many people encounter as they age. While they are often harmless, in some cases, floaters and flashes can signal a more serious underlying eye condition. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, Dr. Marilyn Marquez at Tyson Eye is an expert in retina care and can provide the thorough evaluation and treatment you need to protect your vision.
What Are Floaters?
Floaters are small specks or cobweb-like shapes that appear in your field of vision. They may look like tiny dots, strings, or squiggly lines, and they tend to move as you shift your eyes. Floaters occur when the gel-like substance inside your eye, called the vitreous, begins to liquefy and shrink with age. As the vitreous pulls away from the retina, it creates tiny clumps of cells and fibers that cast shadows on the retina, resulting in the floaters you see.
Most people develop floaters at some point in their lives, especially as they age. While they can be annoying, they are usually not a cause for concern. However, a sudden increase in the number or size of floaters may indicate a more serious condition, such as a retinal tear or detachment.
What Are Flashes?
Flashes, on the other hand, appear as sudden bursts or flickers of light, often resembling lightning streaks. These flashes occur when the vitreous gel pulls on the retina as it shrinks. This tugging can stimulate the retina, creating the sensation of flashing lights, even when your eyes are closed.
Flashes can be more common as you age or after experiencing trauma to the head or eye. Similar to floaters, flashes are usually benign, but they can also be a warning sign of a more serious issue, such as retinal detachment. If you experience flashes, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention to rule out any significant damage to your retina.
When Are Floaters and Flashes a Concern?
Although floaters and flashes are often harmless and part of the natural aging process, there are instances when they require immediate attention from an eye specialist like Dr. Marilyn Marquez at Tyson Eye. Here are some warning signs that suggest you may need urgent care:
- A sudden increase in floaters: If you notice a significant increase in the number of floaters, especially accompanied by flashes, this could indicate a retinal tear or detachment.
- Flashes that appear suddenly or more frequently: Persistent or new flashes of light, especially in one eye, may be a sign of retinal detachment.
- A shadow or curtain effect in your vision: If part of your vision suddenly seems darkened or blocked by a curtain-like shadow, it could signal a retinal detachment, which is a medical emergency.
- Blurry vision or vision loss: A sudden decrease in vision, combined with floaters and flashes, should be evaluated by an eye doctor immediately.
Causes of Floaters and Flashes
Floaters and flashes are most associated with age-related changes in the vitreous, but other factors can contribute to their development, including:
- Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): As we age, the vitreous gel inside the eye naturally shrinks and pulls away from the retina. This process is known as posterior vitreous detachment, and it is the leading cause of floaters and flashes in older adults. While PVD is usually harmless, it can sometimes lead to retinal tears or detachment.
- Retinal Tears or Detachment: If the vitreous gel pulls too hard on the retina, it can cause a tear, allowing fluid to leak underneath and detach the retina from its underlying tissue. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
- Eye Trauma: Any trauma to the eye, such as a blow to the head or eye, can cause flashes and floaters as the vitreous shifts and pulls on the retina.
- Infections or Inflammation: Eye conditions such as uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye) can also cause floaters and flashes.
Why Choose Tyson Eye?
Tyson Eye is a renowned eye care practice that has been serving Southwest Florida for decades, offering comprehensive eye care services to patients of all ages. With a team of highly skilled specialists, including Dr. Marilyn Marquez, Tyson Eye provides cutting-edge diagnostic technology and advanced treatment options for a wide range of eye conditions, including floaters, flashes, and retinal disorders.
At Tyson Eye, the focus is on delivering high-quality, compassionate care that prioritizes patient well-being and vision preservation. With multiple locations across Southwest Florida, including Fort Myers and Bonita Springs, patients have convenient access to expert care.
Protecting Your Vision: Regular Eye Exams Are Key
If you experience floaters and flashes or are concerned about your eye health, it’s essential to schedule regular eye exams. These exams allow for early detection of potential retinal issues and ensure that your vision remains as sharp and healthy as possible.
Dr. Marquez recommends that adults, especially those over the age of 50 or with a history of eye trauma or retinal conditions, undergo comprehensive eye exams at least once a year. Early intervention can make a significant difference in preventing permanent vision loss.
Conclusion
Floaters and flashes can be unsettling, but with the right care and attention, you can protect your vision from more serious conditions like retinal tears or detachment. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with Dr. Marilyn Marquez at Tyson Eye today. With her expertise and the advanced technology available at Tyson Eye, you can trust that your eye health is in excellent hands.
Come See Us at Tyson Eye
At Tyson Eye, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support for all your eye health needs. Whether you’re seeking routine eye exams, specialized treatments, or advanced surgical options, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
With six convenient locations across the region—Cape Coral, Fort Myers, North Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs, and Naples—Tyson Eye is committed to making high-quality eye care easily accessible to you.
Don’t wait to prioritize your eye health. Schedule an appointment with us today to receive the expert care you deserve. Call us at 239-542-2020 to schedule your consultation.
