Your vision is one of your most valuable senses, and sudden changes in how you see can be alarming. While some eye symptoms may be harmless, others require urgent care. Knowing when to seek immediate help from your optometrist can protect your eyesight and prevent long-term damage.

What Are Floaters?

Floaters appear as small spots, squiggly lines, or cobweb-like shapes drifting across your vision. They are often more noticeable when looking at a bright background, like a clear sky or white wall. While occasional floaters are common and usually harmless, a sudden increase in floaters can signal a more serious issue, such as a retinal tear or detachment.

What Do Flashes Mean?

Flashes look like brief sparks or streaks of light in your vision. They occur when the vitreous gel inside the eye tugs on the retina. Though flashes can sometimes be part of the natural aging process, new or persistent flashes should never be ignored. They may indicate retinal problems that require immediate treatment.

Other Signs of an Eye Emergency

Not all eye emergencies involve floaters or flashes. You should contact your optometrist right away if you experience:

• Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes

• A shadow or curtain effect across your vision

• Severe eye pain or redness

• Double vision or sudden blurred vision

• Chemical exposure or foreign objects in the eye

• Sudden onset of headaches with vision changes

Why Prompt Care Matters

Retinal tears and detachments, untreated infections, or injuries can lead to permanent vision loss if not addressed quickly. Early diagnosis and treatment by an optometrist give you the best chance of preserving your sight.

Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs

Floaters and flashes are not always cause for alarm, but they should never be ignored - especially if they appear suddenly or are accompanied by other visual changes. By recognizing the warning signs of an eye emergency and seeking care promptly, you can protect your vision for years to come.

If you’re noticing floaters, flashes, or sudden changes in your vision, contact Optometry Medical Group to schedule an emergency eye exam and ensure your eyes are healthy and protected. Visit our offices in Seattle, Washington, call (206) 322-6915 for our Rainier office, or call (206) 395-2285 for our Madison office.