Alta Bates IVF Program Please visit us at our new location:
2101 4th Avenue, Suite 1360 Seattle WA 98121.
Call Us: 206.623.1758

What Are Flashes and Floaters?

Have you ever seen flashes of light, stars, or streaks that aren't really there? A few of these flashes are seen by everyone from time to time. Usually you see them in one eye at a time. Flashes are often caused by the vitreous (the gel filling the inside of your eye) pulling on the retina (a membrane that lines the inside of your eye). Floaters look like dark specks, clouds, threads, or spider webs moving through your vision. Most people see them once in a while. Floaters may be pieces of gel or other material floating inside your eye. They are usually harmless.

Who Gets Flashes?

As you age or if you are nearsighted (have fuzzy distance vision), you are more likely to see flashes. Sometimes, flashes are signs of other eye problems that need care.

Who Gets Floaters?

The older you get, the more likely you'll notice floaters. Floaters can also be caused by an eye injury or surgery. People who are very nearsighted also get more floaters. If floaters appear suddenly or greatly increase in number, they may be a sign of an eye problem that needs care.

Date Last Reviewed: 2005-08-05T00:00:00-06:00

Date Last Modified: 2008-07-15T00:00:00-06:00

Testimonials

We see patients from the downtown Seattle, Belltown and South Lake Union areas of Seattle in King County, WA.

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Our Staff

Dr. Feiten was born and raised in Wisconsin, attending the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh for her undergraduate studies. She graduated from Pacific University with her Doctor of Optometry degree in 1987. She practiced in Kentucky for seven years, receiving the Young OD of the Year Award in 1994.

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Contact Us

2101 4th Avenue, Suite 1360
Seattle, WA 98121
206.623.1758
Fax: 206.623.1759
Map and driving directions