Floaters and Flashes
By middle age, most people see small dark shapes that appear to float in their field of vision. These are called floaters. They are particles in the vitreous body, a jelly-like substance that fills the inside of the eye. The vitreous body is attached to the retina, the layer of light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Floaters appear because they cast shadows on the retina.
Small flashes of light may be seen with or without floaters. Flashes are usually caused by the vitreous body tugging on the retina. This tugging occurs when the vitreous body shrinks with age. The shrinking vitreous body often separates from the retina (posterior vitreous detachment).
Floaters and flashes are usually just annoying, not harmful. However, the sudden onset of many new floaters or flashes could be a warning of looming serious eye problems, including tears of the retina or a detached retina.
The annoying symptoms of floaters may be reduced using a formulation called Vitrocap. VitroCap is a non-surgical supplement designed to reduce the severity and discomfort of eye floaters. It is a patented German formulation made in Australia under license that contains a blend of micronutrients, including Vitamin C, grape seed extract, citrus bioflavonoids, zinc, and L-lysine. The ingredients are intended to support the collagen structure within the vitreous humor of the eye and are taken as one capsule daily for a minimum of three to six months.
Click here to view a RANZCO information sheet on Floaters and Flashes.
Retinal Detachment
The retina is a light-sensitive layer of tissue that lines the inner surface of the eye. It captures light and sends signals to the brain that result in vision. When a retinal detachment occurs, the retina is separated from the underlying tissue and stops functioning.
Wherever the retina detaches, vision is lost and a shadow develops. This can lead to total blindness in the affected eye. In most cases, the cause is a retinal tear or hole.
Risk factors
- increasing age
- short-sightedness
- abnormalities of the retina
- a personal or family history of retinal detachment
- previous cataract surgery
Click here to view more information about Retinal Detachment via RANZCO.
Clinical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every individual’s condition is unique, and the details presented here may not apply to your personal situation. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about your health or treatment options. Reliance on this information is solely at your own risk.