02/19/2026
Have you ever wondered what that tiny bright dot or thread in your vision is?
Flashes are sensations of seeing a light when there is no light present. Some flashes look like many tiny bright dots of light, while others can look like lightening. Flashes generally only last for a brief second but they are recurrent.
As you age, the fluid in the eye undergoes chemical changes that cause protein deposits that form clumps and strings in the fluid. When light passes through the eye, the protein clumps throw a shadow on to the retina producing the floaters.
When are flashes and floaters serious?
Floaters are very common. Floaters that have been present for years and are
unchanged in size or number are usually not serious. However, if you notice new floaters, or new flashes, book an eye exam immediately. This could be a symptom of a retinal tear, which can be a precursor to the retina separating from the back of the eye entirely.
If you have any questions about your flashers or floaters, please feel free to dm us, call us at 604-770-2095, or email us at info@viewoptometry.ca.
