Flashes and floaters: a practical approach to assessment and management

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Flashes and floaters are common ophthalmic issues for which patients may initially present to their general practitioner. It may be a sign of benign, age-related changes of the vitreous or more serious retinal detachment. OBJECTIVE: This article provides a guide to the assessment and management of a patient presenting with flashes and floaters. DISCUSSION: Although most patients presenting with flashes and floaters have benign age-related changes, they must be referred to an ophthalmologist to rule out sight-threatening conditions. Key examination features include the nature of the flashes and floaters, whether one or both eyes are affected and changes in visual acuity or visual field.