Irregular occurrences in vision are no casual matter.
People who experience symptoms such as a “mini-avalanche of spots” (which doctors call floaters) or “lightening bolt flashes” are advised to seek medical attention promptly as they could indicate serious vision problems.
According to a New York Times report, “When blood flow through the retina is blocked or when the retina pulls away from the wall of the eye, getting the problem properly diagnosed can be an emergency.” Prompt treatments can greatly help if they are begun before the damage is irreversible, but a delay in getting to a retinal specialist can be dangerous and cause serious damage to one’s vision.
In some cases, the problem may be a detached retina, which presents itself with “blind spots or black curtains,” and laser surgery is necessary to save the vision. In other cases, flashes of light can be symptoms of a vitreous hemorrhage, an aging condition where the vitreous gel hat fills the center of the eyeball shrinks and pulls away from the retina. Here, the problem will resolve itself in a couple of weeks.
What’s important to remember is that floater, flashes, or any other vision irregularities should not be taken lightly. Be sure to seek medical attention promptly to take care of your vision.