Flashes, Floaters & Retinal Detachment in Adelaide

If you notice flashes of light, new floaters, or a shadow across your vision, it could be a warning sign of a retinal tear or detachment. These conditions require urgent care to prevent permanent vision loss.

At Innovative Eye Care, our Adelaide optometrists provide immediate assessment, diagnosis, and referral when necessary.

What Are Flashes & Floaters?

• Floaters appear as specks, dots, or cobwebs in your vision.
• Flashes are sudden streaks of light, often caused by the vitreous gel pulling on the retina.

Most are harmless, but a sudden increase in floaters or flashes may indicate a retinal tear or detachment. For more information click here

Retinal Tear Symptoms to Watch For

• New or worsening floaters
• Sudden light flashes in one eye
• A dark curtain or shadow in vision
• Blurred or distorted central vision

If untreated, a retinal tear can progress to a retinal detachment and potentially blindness.

Early Signs of Retinal Detachment

Warning signs include:

• Curtain or shadow moving across vision
• Loss of peripheral vision
• Sudden drop in visual clarity

This is a medical emergency, same-day assessment is critical.

Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)

A posterior vitreous detachment is common with age and often harmless. However, because PVD can cause traction, it sometimes leads to retinal tears or detachment. Our optometrists can confirm the diagnosis with a dilated fundus exam.

Diagnostic Tests: Dilated Fundus Exams & Retinal Imaging

We use dilated fundus exams, OCT, and retinal imaging to carefully examine the retina. This ensures tears or detachments are identified early.

Urgent Eye Care in Adelaide

If you notice:

• Sudden flashes of light
• New floaters
• A shadow or curtain in your vision

Book an urgent eye exam in Adelaide or Henley immediately.

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‍Book Emergency Eye Appointment

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