Are you seeing small specks, dots, circles, or cobwebs in your vision? It could be that you are experiencing floaters. Some floaters aren’t a large concern and may go away with time. However, some can be a serious problem that requires you to see your trusted eye doctor in Lawton — at Complete Eye Care — as soon as possible.
FLOATERS
Floaters are actually tiny, gel-like clumps of cells inside the fluid that fills your eye. They cast shadows onto your retina, which can affect your vision. As we age, that vitreous fluid starts to shrink or thicken. Occasionally, strands will pull away from the back of the eye, causing many of floaters that people experience.
FLASHES
Flashes are exactly as the name describes: quick, flashing lights or lightning streaks across your vision. These flashes often appear with floaters, as the vitreous fluid pulls on your retina. The flashes you see are caused by electrical impulses being sent to your brain. The brain interprets these impulses as light, and ergo flashes!
Though some people experience flashes as they age, flashes of light can also be cause for concern.
WHEN TO SEE AN EYE DOCTOR
Although some flashes and floaters aren’t significant, some can be a symptom of a serious condition that requires immediate help from your eye doctor.
Here are a few signs that you should call your doctor immediately:
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A large number of floaters quickly appear
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Multiple flashes are present in your field of vision
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A curtain or shadow covers part of your vision
One or more of these symptoms could be a sign of a detached retina. That means your retina is pulling away from the back of your eye. This condition is critical and could lead to vision loss if left untreated.
Other eye conditions that may cause flashes and floaters include:
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Inflammation of the Eye’s Interior
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Nearsightedness
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Cataract Surgery
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Diabetes or Diabetic Retinopathy
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CMV Retinitis
If you are having flashes and floaters or seeing other vision irregularities, contact the care providers at Complete Eye Care - Newcastle. Your eye doctor will quickly evaluate your symptoms, inspect your vision, and make sure your eyes are in healthy condition.
These issues are considered vision-threatening and we will get you in the same day. Emergencies are no joke. Be sure your vision is preserved with the right primary care eyecare physicians at Complete Eye Care Newcastle. Be Sure to call us ASAP if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms at 405-387-4884. We are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM with a lunch break from 12:30PM to 1:30PM. If we are not open during the time of your emergency, please contact 911 or the Emergency Room near you.
We are closed from 12:30pm to 1:30pm for lunch daily.