What causes floaters and flashes?
As people age, the vitreous humor starts to liquefy centrally, forming clumps or strands inside the eye. The outer or posterior portion of the vitreous also called cortical vitreous gel pulls away from the retina, causing a posterior vitreous detachment. As the cortical vitreous detaches from the retina it pulls on the retina causing the brain to perceive flashes of light. People who are nearsighted, have undergone cataract operations, have had YAG laser surgery of the eyes and have had inflammation inside the eye are at greater risk of posterior vitreous detachment. The appearance of floaters and flashes may be alarming, especially if they develop suddenly. You should see an ophthalmologist right away if you suddenly develop new floaters, if you see sudden flashes of light, or see a curtain or veil obscure your vision. This could indicate a torn retina and possible retinal detachment which is an ophthalmologic emergency.
