[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":1324},["ShallowReactive",2],{"microcopies":3,"page-data-\u002Feye-care\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Feye-floaters":9},{"of":4,"jumpToSection":5,"home":6,"availableAt":7,"accessedUpdated":8},"of","Jump to section","Home","Available at","Accessed",{"queryData":10,"breadcrumbTrail":1323},{"contentPage":11},{"entryTitle":12,"pageTitle":13,"seoMetaData":14,"topSection":18,"bottomSection":26,"anchors":38,"mainSectionCollection":81},"AU - Eye Health - Eye Conditions - Floaters & Flashes","Floaters & Flashes: Causes & Care",{"metaDescription":15,"indexed":16,"follow":16,"metaKeywords":17,"updatedForProjectAlphabet":16},"Seeing spots, squiggles or shadows drifting across your vision? Learn what causes eye floaters, when they’re harmless, and when to seek help.",true,null,{"__typename":19,"sys":20,"button":17,"title":22,"subtitle":23,"theme":24,"heroHeightVersion":25},"HeroBanner",{"id":21},"7hwihEYF4yQY49Yyw3R7dO"," Floaters and flashes (black dots)","What are floaters and flashes, why do we get them, and how to know if they're a sign of something serious.","Ellipse","Condensed",{"__typename":27,"sys":28,"title":30,"body":31,"buttonsCollection":32},"FullWidthBannerFooter",{"id":29},"51o4LDgfgwIbWVUJ0kcQ8X","Let's get your vision sorted","Noticed a change in your sight? Whether it’s something new or something that’s been bothering you for a while, we’re here to help. ",{"items":33},[34],{"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an eye test","\u002Fbook\u002Flocation",false,{"anchorLinksCollection":39},{"items":40},[41,46,51,56,61,66,71,76],{"anchorLabel":42,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":43},"What are Floaters and Flashes?",{"sys":44},{"id":45},"1Wi7o5Tuhw8L2wOYcttwmj",{"anchorLabel":47,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":48},"Symptoms ",{"sys":49},{"id":50},"3B380QM8Ml5BTYd5usPcbT",{"anchorLabel":52,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":53},"Causes ",{"sys":54},{"id":55},"goosyflOpxuPY7UK38aB9",{"anchorLabel":57,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":58},"Diagnosis ",{"sys":59},{"id":60},"22QSUljRHn6IKkOKSg6dJL",{"anchorLabel":62,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":63},"Risks ",{"sys":64},{"id":65},"1DOEOtkoeHk50s1g2LHdhp",{"anchorLabel":67,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":68},"Treatment ",{"sys":69},{"id":70},"67Tijmu945SjVz3fQImKU3",{"anchorLabel":72,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":73},"Prevention ",{"sys":74},{"id":75},"2XXsoiVkABJsSur4vy3C91",{"anchorLabel":77,"includeLinkInPageNav":16,"anchorTarget":78},"FAQs ",{"sys":79},{"id":80},"6J5Pa44pN1Ry2Nr0APhGaj",{"items":82},[83,166,219,277,319,444,501,610,17,619,703,814,1002,1015,1045,1091,1272,1303],{"__typename":84,"sys":85,"switchSequenceAtMobile":37,"backgroundTheme":87,"leftColumnCollection":88,"rightColumnCollection":120},"TwoColumnLayout",{"id":86},"35f8btaCkDdMg1r8sJQU5H","Blue",{"items":89},[90],{"__typename":91,"sys":92,"theme":94,"genericTextComponent":95},"ContentTypeRichText",{"id":93},"1OoCbWPhrmh9UD8r8mzv86","Mono White",{"json":96,"links":117},{"data":97,"content":98,"nodeType":116},{},[99,108],{"data":100,"content":101,"nodeType":107},{},[102],{"data":103,"marks":104,"value":105,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Seeing black blobs in your vision?","text","heading-3",{"data":109,"content":110,"nodeType":115},{},[111],{"data":112,"marks":113,"value":114,"nodeType":106},{},[],"These tiny, semi-transparent shapes are called floaters. They happen when little clumps of protein or tissue float around the gel inside your eye and cast shadows on your retina. Sounds alarming, but the truth is floaters are usually harmless. You might notice them more in the morning, when looking at plain surfaces, or after reading or rubbing your eyes.","paragraph","document",{"entries":118},{"block":119},[],{"items":121},[122],{"__typename":91,"sys":123,"theme":94,"genericTextComponent":125},{"id":124},"4ZF7YL1KfsYRuAjUpVQLLv",{"json":126,"links":163},{"nodeType":116,"data":127,"content":128},{},[129,136,143],{"nodeType":107,"data":130,"content":131},{},[132],{"nodeType":106,"value":133,"marks":134,"data":135},"What about flashes of light?",[],{},{"nodeType":115,"data":137,"content":138},{},[139],{"nodeType":106,"value":140,"marks":141,"data":142},"Sometimes, floaters come with bright flickers or flashes – like little sparks in your vision. These flashes happen when the vitreous gel tugs on the retina. That’s often nothing serious, but it can sometimes be a sign of a bigger issue, like a tear or detachment in the retina. If you notice flashes you should get them checked. ",[],{},{"nodeType":115,"data":144,"content":145},{},[146,150,159],{"nodeType":106,"value":147,"marks":148,"data":149},"Learn more about ",[],{},{"nodeType":151,"data":152,"content":154},"hyperlink",{"uri":153},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Feye-anatomy",[155],{"nodeType":106,"value":156,"marks":157,"data":158},"eye anatomy",[],{},{"nodeType":106,"value":160,"marks":161,"data":162},"",[],{},{"entries":164},{"block":165},[],{"__typename":167,"sys":168,"title":169,"subtitle":170,"hotspotConfigurator":171,"hotspotImageReference":217},"MediaHotspotCarousel",{"id":45},"Floaters and flashes explained","Floaters seem surface-level, but they’re inside your eye.",{"assetId":172,"hotspots":173},"350sGiM8GbjQkEI0o4ovOO",[174,187,197,207],{"x":175,"y":176,"id":177,"label":178,"theme":179,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":180,"naturalX":181,"naturalY":182,"percentageX":183,"percentageY":184,"appImageWidth":185,"appImageHeight":186},539.5,103.99999999999999,"I4PTJGmYXYiUUM2IbWGhR","Retina","Light","A thin layer of light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It receives images and sends them to the brain through the optic nerve.",628.4960182025028,121.19999999999999,61.376564277588166,20,879,520,{"x":188,"y":189,"id":190,"label":191,"theme":179,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":192,"naturalX":193,"naturalY":194,"percentageX":195,"percentageY":196,"appImageWidth":185,"appImageHeight":186},434.6444094917991,249.65530014770275,"sTG1aqKE7j5s8n84S_LST","Vitreous humour","The clear, jelly-like substance that fills the space between the lens and retina. It helps the eye hold its shape and cushions the retina.",506.3434303977273,290.94444594136127,49.447600624778055,48.01063464378898,{"x":198,"y":199,"id":200,"label":201,"theme":179,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":202,"naturalX":203,"naturalY":204,"percentageX":205,"percentageY":206,"appImageWidth":185,"appImageHeight":186},402.5,317.99999999999994,"SEfHK49c8KFJbjvNZFRkz","Debris in the vitreous","Tiny bits of natural material floating in the vitreous humour. These cast shadows on the retina and show up in your vision as floaters.",468.89647326507395,370.59230769230766,45.79067121729238,61.153846153846146,{"x":208,"y":209,"id":210,"label":211,"theme":179,"isValid":16,"bodyCopy":212,"naturalX":213,"naturalY":214,"percentageX":215,"percentageY":216,"appImageWidth":185,"appImageHeight":186},463.50000000000006,319,"TBcX5o7mbLecMQp_IZe-f","Vitreous pulling on the retina","As the vitreous changes with age, it can shrink slightly and tug on the retina. This pulling can trigger short bursts of light, called flashes.",539.9590443686008,371.7576923076923,52.730375426621166,61.346153846153854,{"url":218},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F350sGiM8GbjQkEI0o4ovOO\u002F7e4782176839acfa37700a5ed7f9b183\u002Fblind-spot-pupil-reflex-2zejrof6swffvdyi15fr40.jpg",{"__typename":84,"sys":220,"switchSequenceAtMobile":37,"backgroundTheme":87,"leftColumnCollection":221,"rightColumnCollection":247},{"id":50},{"items":222},[223],{"__typename":91,"sys":224,"theme":94,"genericTextComponent":226},{"id":225},"6n2FFIxsoPz8uAvLen8HD4",{"json":227,"links":244},{"data":228,"content":229,"nodeType":116},{},[230,237],{"data":231,"content":232,"nodeType":107},{},[233],{"data":234,"marks":235,"value":236,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Symptoms of floaters",{"data":238,"content":239,"nodeType":115},{},[240],{"data":241,"marks":242,"value":243,"nodeType":106},{},[],"These show up as dark shapes moving across your field of vision. They might look like small dots or specks, thin threads or squiggly lines, or floating blobs and cobwebs. You’ll probably notice them more when you’re looking at something plain and bright, like a clear sky or a white wall. They usually move when your eyes move and drift slowly when your eyes stop.",{"entries":245},{"block":246},[],{"items":248},[249],{"__typename":91,"sys":250,"theme":94,"genericTextComponent":252},{"id":251},"69TzWtB1KJbX3GT2yxjQgV",{"json":253,"links":274},{"nodeType":116,"data":254,"content":255},{},[256,263],{"nodeType":107,"data":257,"content":258},{},[259],{"nodeType":106,"value":260,"marks":261,"data":262},"Symptoms of flashes",[],{},{"nodeType":115,"data":264,"content":265},{},[266,270],{"nodeType":106,"value":267,"marks":268,"data":269},"These usually show up as brief flashes or flickers of light, mostly at the edges of your vision. They can look like small streaks, quick bursts (like a camera flash), or flickering in the side of your eye. You might notice them more when it's dark or if you move your eyes quickly. ",[],{},{"nodeType":106,"value":271,"marks":272,"data":273},"It can also present as a dark veil or curtain creeping in from the edges of you vision towards the centre. This indicates a more serious issue and is a medical emergency. ",[],{},{"entries":275},{"block":276},[],{"__typename":91,"sys":278,"theme":94,"genericTextComponent":280},{"id":279},"6TjQMsBzHserVVCfLREMc6",{"json":281,"links":314},{"data":282,"content":283,"nodeType":116},{},[284,292,299,308],{"data":285,"content":286,"nodeType":291},{},[287],{"data":288,"marks":289,"value":290,"nodeType":106},{},[],"If your symptoms get worse","heading-2",{"data":293,"content":294,"nodeType":115},{},[295],{"data":296,"marks":297,"value":298,"nodeType":106},{},[],"If either symptom get worse, or you notice a sudden increase in floaters or flashes, it’s important to get your eyes checked on the same day.  It could be a sign of a more serious issue, like a retinal tear or detachment.  ",{"data":300,"content":306,"nodeType":307},{"target":301},{"sys":302},{"id":303,"type":304,"linkType":305},"395b8esPHoSP6jWAob1ApE","Link","Entry",[],"embedded-entry-block",{"data":309,"content":310,"nodeType":115},{},[311],{"data":312,"marks":313,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"entries":315},{"block":316},[317],{"__typename":304,"sys":318,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":303},{"__typename":91,"sys":320,"theme":321,"genericTextComponent":322},{"id":55},"Cool Blue",{"json":323,"links":441},{"data":324,"content":325,"nodeType":116},{},[326,333,340,347,365,372,391,398,416,423],{"data":327,"content":328,"nodeType":291},{},[329],{"data":330,"marks":331,"value":332,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Causes of floaters and flashes",{"data":334,"content":335,"nodeType":115},{},[336],{"data":337,"marks":338,"value":339,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Floaters and flashes are often harmless, but sometimes can indicate a more serious condition, such as a torn detached retina and therefore need to be examined by an optometrist.",{"data":341,"content":342,"nodeType":107},{},[343],{"data":344,"marks":345,"value":346,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)",{"data":348,"content":349,"nodeType":115},{},[350,354,362],{"data":351,"marks":352,"value":353,"nodeType":106},{},[],"This is the most common cause of floaters and flashes. It happens naturally as we get older – the gel inside the eye (vitreous humour) starts to shrink and pull away from the retina. You might notice floaters that look like threads, dots, or cobwebs drifting across your vision, sometimes with flashes at the edges. It usually settles over time and doesn’t need treatment.\n \n",{"data":355,"content":357,"nodeType":151},{"uri":356},"\u002Fhelp-and-faqs\u002Fwhat-is-posterior-vitreous-separation-detachment",[358],{"data":359,"marks":360,"value":361,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Learn more about posterior vitreous detachment",{"data":363,"marks":364,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":366,"content":367,"nodeType":107},{},[368],{"data":369,"marks":370,"value":371,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Retinal tear or detachment",{"data":373,"content":374,"nodeType":115},{},[375,379,387],{"data":376,"marks":377,"value":378,"nodeType":106},{},[],"In some cases, the shrinking vitreous gel can tug too hard on the retina and cause a tear – which can lead to detachment if left untreated. Watch out for: a sudden shower of floaters, flashes of light, or a shadow in your peripheral vision or a grey curtain in part of your vision. This is an eye emergency and needs treatment urgently to prevent permanent vision loss. Retinal tears can often be sealed with laser treatment. If the retina has detached, surgery is needed.\n \n",{"data":380,"content":382,"nodeType":151},{"uri":381},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fretinal-detachment",[383],{"data":384,"marks":385,"value":386,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Learn more about detached retinas",{"data":388,"marks":389,"value":390,"nodeType":106},{},[]," ",{"data":392,"content":393,"nodeType":107},{},[394],{"data":395,"marks":396,"value":397,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Ocular migraine",{"data":399,"content":400,"nodeType":115},{},[401,405,413],{"data":402,"marks":403,"value":404,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Flashes or zig-zag patterns in your vision – sometimes with blurry patches or temporary loss of sight – could be a sign of an ocular migraine. These often pass on their own but can feel unsettling if you’ve never had one before. If you experience this for the first time, or have not been diagnosed with migraines, get it checked by your optometrist.\n \n",{"data":406,"content":408,"nodeType":151},{"uri":407},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Focular-migraines",[409],{"data":410,"marks":411,"value":412,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Learn more about ocular migraines ",{"data":414,"marks":415,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":417,"content":418,"nodeType":107},{},[419],{"data":420,"marks":421,"value":422,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Other causes",{"data":424,"content":425,"nodeType":115},{},[426,430,438],{"data":427,"marks":428,"value":429,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Floaters and flashes can also be linked to other eye conditions like diabetic retinopathy or inflammation in the eye. These are less common, but they may need treatment with eye drops, injections, laser or surgery, depending on what’s causing them.\n \n",{"data":431,"content":433,"nodeType":151},{"uri":432},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fdiabetic-retinopathy",[434],{"data":435,"marks":436,"value":437,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Learn more about diabetic retinopathy",{"data":439,"marks":440,"value":390,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"entries":442},{"block":443},[],{"__typename":91,"sys":445,"theme":94,"genericTextComponent":446},{"id":60},{"json":447,"links":496},{"data":448,"content":449,"nodeType":116},{},[450,457,464,471,478,485,490],{"data":451,"content":452,"nodeType":291},{},[453],{"data":454,"marks":455,"value":456,"nodeType":106},{},[],"How are floaters and flashes tested and diagnosed?",{"data":458,"content":459,"nodeType":115},{},[460],{"data":461,"marks":462,"value":463,"nodeType":106},{},[],"If you're worried about sudden flashes or black dots in your eyesight, an eye test with one of our experts can help.",{"data":465,"content":466,"nodeType":115},{},[467],{"data":468,"marks":469,"value":470,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Wondering whether an optometrist can see floaters? The answer is yes. During your eye test, we'll use eye drops to widen (dilate) your pupil. This will allow us to see the back of your eye and the vitreous humour more clearly. ",{"data":472,"content":473,"nodeType":115},{},[474],{"data":475,"marks":476,"value":477,"nodeType":106},{},[],"We'll then make note of any clumps in your vitreous humor that might be causing black marks in your vision. This means we can monitor them and register any increases at your next eye test. ",{"data":479,"content":480,"nodeType":115},{},[481],{"data":482,"marks":483,"value":484,"nodeType":106},{},[],"While your pupils are dilated, we can also check your retina for any tears or detachment. If we spot something that concerns us, we can then have a chat with you about treatment plans and next steps.",{"data":486,"content":489,"nodeType":307},{"target":487},{"sys":488},{"id":303,"type":304,"linkType":305},[],{"data":491,"content":492,"nodeType":115},{},[493],{"data":494,"marks":495,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"entries":497},{"block":498},[499],{"__typename":304,"sys":500,"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"id":303},{"__typename":91,"sys":502,"theme":321,"genericTextComponent":503},{"id":70},{"json":504,"links":607},{"data":505,"content":506,"nodeType":116},{},[507,514,521,528,535,542,549,556,575,582,589,595,601],{"data":508,"content":509,"nodeType":291},{},[510],{"data":511,"marks":512,"value":513,"nodeType":106},{},[],"How to treat floaters and flashes",{"data":515,"content":516,"nodeType":115},{},[517],{"data":518,"marks":519,"value":520,"nodeType":106},{},[],"In most cases, floaters are harmless and don’t need treatment. They’re often caused by age-related changes in the eye and tend to become less noticeable over time.\n \nBut if you’ve started seeing more floaters than usual, or if they’re affecting your vision, it’s a good idea to book an eye test. Your optometrist can check your eyes and keep track of any changes. If there’s been a noticeable increase since your last appointment, they might refer you to an ophthalmologist for a closer look.",{"data":522,"content":523,"nodeType":107},{},[524],{"data":525,"marks":526,"value":527,"nodeType":106},{},[],"When to seek help",{"data":529,"content":530,"nodeType":115},{},[531],{"data":532,"marks":533,"value":534,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Floaters and flashes can sometimes be a sign of a more serious issue, like a retinal tear or detachment. If they come on suddenly – especially if you also notice flashing lights, blurred vision, or a dark shadow in your sight – get urgent medical help. These symptoms need to be checked on the same day.",{"data":536,"content":537,"nodeType":107},{},[538],{"data":539,"marks":540,"value":541,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Treatments for flashes and floaters",{"data":543,"content":544,"nodeType":115},{},[545],{"data":546,"marks":547,"value":548,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Floaters are usually nothing to worry about and often settle on their own without treatment. In some cases, laser treatment (called vitreolysis) can be used to break them up and make them less visible, though it’s not suitable for everyone. For more severe cases, surgery (a vitrectomy) might be considered. This involves removing the gel inside the eye and replacing it with a clear solution.\n \nIf there’s damage to the retina, laser therapy or other types of surgery may be needed. If you notice any sudden changes or your vision is affected, don’t ignore it. Get your eyes checked as soon as you can. Regular eye tests are the best way to keep on top of things.",{"data":550,"content":551,"nodeType":107},{},[552],{"data":553,"marks":554,"value":555,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Will my treatment be covered by Medicare?",{"data":557,"content":558,"nodeType":115},{},[559,563,571],{"data":560,"marks":561,"value":562,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Concerned about costs? You might be entitled to support through ",{"data":564,"content":566,"nodeType":151},{"uri":565},"\u002Feye-tests\u002Fbulk-billing",[567],{"data":568,"marks":569,"value":570,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Medicare",{"data":572,"marks":573,"value":574,"nodeType":106},{},[],".",{"data":576,"content":577,"nodeType":115},{},[578],{"data":579,"marks":580,"value":581,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Check your eligibility before your appointment.",{"data":583,"content":584,"nodeType":115},{},[585],{"data":586,"marks":587,"value":588,"nodeType":106},{},[],"If you require further treatment, private health insurance may help with costs depending on your plan.",{"data":590,"content":591,"nodeType":115},{},[592],{"data":593,"marks":594,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":596,"content":597,"nodeType":115},{},[598],{"data":599,"marks":600,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":602,"content":603,"nodeType":115},{},[604],{"data":605,"marks":606,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"entries":608},{"block":609},[],{"__typename":611,"sys":612,"title":614,"body":615,"theme":24,"buttonCollection":616},"FullWidthBannerSimple",{"id":613},"3SBeDhQHIMUyV6Nu0cyrm5","Ready to see things clearly?","Noticed your eyes hurting, or a change in your sight? Whether it’s something new or something that’s been bothering you for a while, we’re here to help. ",{"items":617},[618],{"linkText":35,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},{"__typename":91,"sys":620,"theme":94,"genericTextComponent":621},{"id":75},{"json":622,"links":700},{"data":623,"content":624,"nodeType":116},{},[625,632,639,646,653,665,672,679,686,693],{"data":626,"content":627,"nodeType":291},{},[628],{"data":629,"marks":630,"value":631,"nodeType":106},{},[],"How to reduce floaters and flashes naturally ",{"data":633,"content":634,"nodeType":115},{},[635],{"data":636,"marks":637,"value":638,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Some black blobs in your vision can be a normal part of getting older and, unfortunately, can’t be completely prevented. But there are a few simple things you can do to help lower the chances of them cropping up or becoming more noticeable:",{"data":640,"content":641,"nodeType":107},{},[642],{"data":643,"marks":644,"value":645,"nodeType":106},{},[],"1. Eat well ",{"data":647,"content":648,"nodeType":115},{},[649],{"data":650,"marks":651,"value":652,"nodeType":106},{},[],"A balanced diet with plenty of leafy greens, fruit, and omega-3 fatty acids can go a long way in supporting healthy eyes.",{"data":654,"content":655,"nodeType":107},{},[656,660],{"data":657,"marks":658,"value":659,"nodeType":106},{},[],"2. Stay on top of your eye tests",{"data":661,"marks":662,"value":390,"nodeType":106},{},[663],{"type":664},"bold",{"data":666,"content":667,"nodeType":115},{},[668],{"data":669,"marks":670,"value":671,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Regular check-ups with your optometrist help catch any early changes in your vision and make sure your eyes are in good health.",{"data":673,"content":674,"nodeType":107},{},[675],{"data":676,"marks":677,"value":678,"nodeType":106},{},[],"3. Give your eyes a break from screens",{"data":680,"content":681,"nodeType":115},{},[682],{"data":683,"marks":684,"value":685,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Too much blue light from phones, tablets or computers can lead to eye strain, which may make floaters feel more irritating.",{"data":687,"content":688,"nodeType":107},{},[689],{"data":690,"marks":691,"value":692,"nodeType":106},{},[],"4. Keep your eyes protected",{"data":694,"content":695,"nodeType":115},{},[696],{"data":697,"marks":698,"value":699,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Whether you’re playing sport or doing DIY, wearing proper eye protection can prevent injury. And when you’re out and about, don’t forget your sunglasses. UV rays can damage your eyes just like they do your skin.",{"entries":701},{"block":702},[],{"__typename":91,"sys":704,"theme":321,"genericTextComponent":705},{"id":65},{"json":706,"links":811},{"data":707,"content":708,"nodeType":116},{},[709,716,723,730,748,755,772,779,797,804],{"data":710,"content":711,"nodeType":291},{},[712],{"data":713,"marks":714,"value":715,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Who's at risk of floaters and flashes?",{"data":717,"content":718,"nodeType":115},{},[719],{"data":720,"marks":721,"value":722,"nodeType":106},{},[],"It’s common to start seeing floaters in vision as you get older and your eyes age. However, some health conditions and everyday factors can lead to more floaters developing, or make them feel more distracting than usual. These include:",{"data":724,"content":725,"nodeType":107},{},[726],{"data":727,"marks":728,"value":729,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Short-sightedness ",{"data":731,"content":732,"nodeType":115},{},[733,737,745],{"data":734,"marks":735,"value":736,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Short-sightedness, also known as myopia, is a common vision condition in which far away objects are difficult to see, but close-up objects appear clearly. Being short-sighted means that the eyeball is longer than typical and the retina is stretched over a larger distance, making it more at risk of conditions like retinal detachment.\n \n",{"data":738,"content":740,"nodeType":151},{"uri":739},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fmyopia",[741],{"data":742,"marks":743,"value":744,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Learn more about myopia",{"data":746,"marks":747,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":749,"content":750,"nodeType":107},{},[751],{"data":752,"marks":753,"value":754,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Diabetes",{"data":756,"content":757,"nodeType":115},{},[758,762,769],{"data":759,"marks":760,"value":761,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Diabetes can affect your eyesight through a condition called diabetic retinopathy. This happens when the small blood vessels in your eyes get blocked, cutting off blood supply to the retina. If left untreated, it can damage the retina and cause long-term vision issues.\n \n",{"data":763,"content":764,"nodeType":151},{"uri":432},[765],{"data":766,"marks":767,"value":768,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Find out more about diabetic retinopathy",{"data":770,"marks":771,"value":390,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":773,"content":774,"nodeType":107},{},[775],{"data":776,"marks":777,"value":778,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Recent cataract surgery ",{"data":780,"content":781,"nodeType":115},{},[782,786,794],{"data":783,"marks":784,"value":785,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Cataract surgery replaces the natural lens in your eye if you're experiencing cloudy vision, which can stir things up a bit, causing some inflammation or changes in the vitreous humour. This might make floaters seem more noticeable at first. In most cases, they’ll disappear over time as your eye recovers.\n \n",{"data":787,"content":789,"nodeType":151},{"uri":788},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fcataract#surgery",[790],{"data":791,"marks":792,"value":793,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Learn more about cataracts ",{"data":795,"marks":796,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":798,"content":799,"nodeType":107},{},[800],{"data":801,"marks":802,"value":803,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Eye inflammation (uveitis) ",{"data":805,"content":806,"nodeType":115},{},[807],{"data":808,"marks":809,"value":810,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Uveitis can cause tiny bits of debris to leak into the vitreous humour. These bits can show up as floaters in your vision, causing irritation and eye pain.",{"entries":812},{"block":813},[],{"__typename":815,"sys":816,"title":817,"theme":818,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":819},"Accordion",{"id":80},"Floaters & Flashes FAQs","White",{"items":820},[821,843,858,890,919,941,970],{"__typename":822,"sys":823,"panel":825,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":842},"Faq",{"id":824},"2P8D89QLczfdHgHnFbBi06",{"json":826},{"data":827,"content":828,"nodeType":116},{},[829,836],{"data":830,"content":831,"nodeType":115},{},[832],{"data":833,"marks":834,"value":835,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Dehydration doesn't directly cause eye floaters, but it might make them feel more noticeable. That's because the vitreous humour - the gel-like substance your eye - is mostly water. If you're not drinking enough fluids, it may shrink slightly, which could make floaters stand out more.  While there's no solid research to confirm a direct link, staying well hydrated is a good idea for your overall eye health. It's a small, easy step that might help reduce how much floaters bother you. ",{"data":837,"content":838,"nodeType":115},{},[839],{"data":840,"marks":841,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Can dehydration cause floaters? ",{"__typename":822,"sys":844,"panel":846,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":857},{"id":845},"8d5zw6271LptDnkZtKvOq",{"json":847},{"data":848,"content":849,"nodeType":116},{},[850],{"data":851,"content":852,"nodeType":115},{},[853],{"data":854,"marks":855,"value":856,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Floaters are a common part of the normal ageing process, and once they appear, they don’t tend to disappear completely. However, they often shrink or shift to the side of your vision, making them less noticeable. As long as the black dots in your eyesight aren't increasing or changing significantly, they typically become easier to ignore over time. ","How long do floaters last?",{"__typename":822,"sys":859,"panel":861,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":889},{"id":860},"3fLjd3WFjbjIYgLfGiigAp",{"json":862},{"data":863,"content":864,"nodeType":116},{},[865,872],{"data":866,"content":867,"nodeType":115},{},[868],{"data":869,"marks":870,"value":871,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Unfortunately, there aren’t any eye drops proven to make floaters disappear once they’ve formed. If your eyes are dry or irritated, you might find your floaters feel more irritating. This is because inflammation on the eye’s surface can make visual disturbances feel more pronounced. Using hydrating eye drops can help relieve that discomfort, but they won’t remove the floaters themselves.",{"data":873,"content":874,"nodeType":115},{},[875,878,886],{"data":876,"marks":877,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":879,"content":881,"nodeType":151},{"uri":880},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fdry-eye-syndrome",[882],{"data":883,"marks":884,"value":885,"nodeType":106},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about dry eyes ",{"data":887,"marks":888,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Do eye drops help floaters?",{"__typename":822,"sys":891,"panel":893,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":918},{"id":892},"72T0YVbuC6kxraNlmN73sA",{"json":894},{"data":895,"content":896,"nodeType":116},{},[897,904,911],{"data":898,"content":899,"nodeType":115},{},[900],{"data":901,"marks":902,"value":903,"nodeType":106},{},[],"If floaters are seriously impacting your ability to see or if they’ve become progressively worse, a vitrectomy might be an option for you.",{"data":905,"content":906,"nodeType":115},{},[907],{"data":908,"marks":909,"value":910,"nodeType":106},{},[],"This surgery involves a specialist surgeon removing the vitreous humour and replacing it with a saline solution. While it can offer relief from floaters and black spots in your peripheral vision in the short term, it also carries risks, such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, and retinal tears. ",{"data":912,"content":913,"nodeType":115},{},[914],{"data":915,"marks":916,"value":917,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Vitrectomies are rarely performed and aren't typically covered by Medicare.","Is there surgery available for floaters and flashes?",{"__typename":822,"sys":920,"panel":922,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":940},{"id":921},"2s76swt6RRxKwUBC3TfTfw",{"json":923},{"data":924,"content":925,"nodeType":116},{},[926,933],{"data":927,"content":928,"nodeType":115},{},[929],{"data":930,"marks":931,"value":932,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Floaters are a normal part of getting older, and once they show up, they can’t be completely eliminated. However, they often become smaller and drift towards the edges of your field of vision, which can make them easier to ignore.",{"data":934,"content":935,"nodeType":115},{},[936],{"data":937,"marks":938,"value":939,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Keeping your eyes healthy by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and reducing screen time can help minimise how noticeable floaters feel day-to-day. ","Can you get rid of floaters naturally? ",{"__typename":822,"sys":942,"panel":944,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":969},{"id":943},"5l6VqMAoOEFi5HOBCTrQl0",{"json":945},{"data":946,"content":947,"nodeType":116},{},[948,955,962],{"data":949,"content":950,"nodeType":115},{},[951],{"data":952,"marks":953,"value":954,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Stress doesn't directly cause floaters, but it can make them seem more noticeable. ",{"data":956,"content":957,"nodeType":115},{},[958],{"data":959,"marks":960,"value":961,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Stress activates your body’s \"fight-or-flight\" response, which causes your pupils to dilate. This can increase your awareness of floaters and make you more sensitive to light, so you might notice them more than you usually do.",{"data":963,"content":964,"nodeType":115},{},[965],{"data":966,"marks":967,"value":968,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Eye strain from stress can also lead to dry eyes and inflammation, which can make floaters feel more prominent.","Can stress cause floaters?",{"__typename":822,"sys":971,"panel":973,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1001},{"id":972},"5i770vdqIhe4CudX2Zv1yO",{"json":974},{"data":975,"content":976,"nodeType":116},{},[977,984],{"data":978,"content":979,"nodeType":115},{},[980],{"data":981,"marks":982,"value":983,"nodeType":106},{},[],"If your floaters and flashes are accompanied by worsening eyesight, it's crucial to book an eye test as soon as possible. This will allow our optometrists to rule out any serious concerns and help you understand what's going on inside your eyes. They will then work with you to address any problems and help you figure out the best treatment plan for your needs.",{"data":985,"content":986,"nodeType":115},{},[987,990,998],{"data":988,"marks":989,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":991,"content":993,"nodeType":151},{"uri":992},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fwhy-is-my-eyesight-getting-worse",[994],{"data":995,"marks":996,"value":997,"nodeType":106},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more eyesight getting worse",{"data":999,"marks":1000,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Why is my eyesight getting worse?",{"__typename":611,"sys":1003,"title":1005,"body":1006,"theme":1007,"buttonCollection":1008},{"id":1004},"1WGy75Pd8zIB5q5ZpdA2sW","Did you know?","Eye tests are bulk billed to Medicare, so there are no out-of-pocket expenses for you*.","Block Colour",{"items":1009},[1010,1012],{"linkText":1011,"linkUrl":36,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"Book an appointment",{"linkText":1013,"linkUrl":1014,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37},"See more eye conditions","\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions",{"__typename":1016,"sys":1017,"title":1019,"backgroundTheme":818,"authorEntriesCollection":1020},"AuthorContainer",{"id":1018},"2R7ahVzi7hknFPZlstGy74","Written with care and checked for accuracy ",{"items":1021},[1022],{"authorBiography":1023,"authorName":1041,"authorQualification":1042,"authorPhoto":1043},{"json":1024},{"data":1025,"content":1026,"nodeType":116},{},[1027,1034],{"data":1028,"content":1029,"nodeType":115},{},[1030],{"data":1031,"marks":1032,"value":1033,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Bhavishna is a highly accomplished optometrist with a Bachelor of Optometry from The University of Auckland. With extensive global experience in private clinics, ophthalmology centres, hospital clinics and corporate optometry across the UK, Australia and New Zealand, she brings a wealth of expertise to her field. ",{"data":1035,"content":1036,"nodeType":115},{},[1037],{"data":1038,"marks":1039,"value":1040,"nodeType":106},{},[],"In her current role as Clinical Performance Consultant in NSW & ACT, Bhavishna plays a pivotal role in supporting partners and optometrists in delivering expert clinical care. Her focus on creating exceptional customer journeys ensures that patients receive personalised and top-notch eye care services.","Bhavishna Narsey ","BOptom(Hons) TPA",{"url":1044},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F1tjzyvgoy4dCY3KaZK9NLK\u002Fb98afe9789b91c9c08a140a9baa328f2\u002FBhavishna_Narsey.jpg",{"__typename":1046,"sys":1047,"title":1049,"theme":818,"listType":1050,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1051},"SingleRowAccordion",{"id":1048},"2de42efHeJvlXpO7YLb9zi","Sources we're used","Numbered",{"items":1052},[1053,1062,1069,1075,1083],{"__typename":1054,"sys":1055,"citationAuthor":1057,"citationYear":1058,"citationDescription":1059,"citationUrl":1060,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1061},"Citation",{"id":1056},"5HpgdLqfvZEMZAjqmvpfiX","American Academy of Ophthalmology",2022," Eye floaters and flashes","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.aao.org\u002Feye-health\u002Fdiseases\u002Fwhat-are-floaters-flashes","2025-12-08T00:00:00.000Z",{"__typename":1054,"sys":1063,"citationAuthor":1065,"citationYear":1066,"citationDescription":1067,"citationUrl":1068,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1061},{"id":1064},"7H9KGdUvfk8Jczq7qspQIa","Mayo Clinic",2023,"Eye floaters.","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.mayoclinic.org\u002Fdiseases-conditions\u002Feye-floaters\u002Fsymptoms-causes\u002Fsyc-20372346",{"__typename":1054,"sys":1070,"citationAuthor":1072,"citationYear":1058,"citationDescription":1073,"citationUrl":1074,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1061},{"id":1071},"sHixpUjF3xUJdIK7BKk0k","National Eye Institute","Floaters","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.nei.nih.gov\u002Flearn-about-eye-health\u002Feye-conditions-and-diseases\u002Ffloaters",{"__typename":1054,"sys":1076,"citationAuthor":1078,"citationYear":1079,"citationDescription":1080,"citationUrl":1081,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1082},{"id":1077},"1dJvoOHR1LHB0XMkzDi52z","World Health Organisation",2020," Vision impairment and blindness","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.who.int\u002Fnews-room\u002Ffact-sheets\u002Fdetail\u002Fblindness-and-visual-impairment","2025-12-24T00:00:00.000Z",{"__typename":1054,"sys":1084,"citationAuthor":1086,"citationYear":1087,"citationDescription":1088,"citationUrl":1089,"citationAccessedUpdatedDate":1090},{"id":1085},"6iRWJcEy9efkkhzUDra0Kw","BMJ Best Practice",2024," Vitreous detachment and floaters.","https:\u002F\u002Fbestpractice.bmj.com","2025-12-09T00:00:00.000Z",{"__typename":815,"sys":1092,"title":1094,"theme":1095,"expandFirstRow":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1096},{"id":1093},"6geZ77yAIn1v9sdnAAHqvZ","Could it be something else? ","Grey",{"items":1097},[1098,1113,1145,1177,1208,1240],{"__typename":822,"sys":1099,"panel":1101,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1112},{"id":1100},"tNbklNpdnCQYByMqgZjBb",{"json":1102},{"data":1103,"content":1104,"nodeType":116},{},[1105],{"data":1106,"content":1107,"nodeType":115},{},[1108],{"data":1109,"marks":1110,"value":1111,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Things appear out of focus? Blurred vision can be caused by many different issues. ","Blurred vision",{"__typename":822,"sys":1114,"panel":1116,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1144},{"id":1115},"4X16xsgvQu0AWGHTUfTKWR",{"json":1117},{"data":1118,"content":1119,"nodeType":116},{},[1120,1127],{"data":1121,"content":1122,"nodeType":115},{},[1123],{"data":1124,"marks":1125,"value":1126,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Vision that looks misty or hazy could be a sign of cataracts or another eye issue that needs checking. ",{"data":1128,"content":1129,"nodeType":115},{},[1130,1133,1141],{"data":1131,"marks":1132,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":1134,"content":1136,"nodeType":151},{"uri":1135},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fcloudy-vision",[1137],{"data":1138,"marks":1139,"value":1140,"nodeType":106},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about cloudy vision",{"data":1142,"marks":1143,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Cloudy vision",{"__typename":822,"sys":1146,"panel":1148,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1176},{"id":1147},"1FAVjC1oHPKyfFmXGXdEiZ",{"json":1149},{"data":1150,"content":1151,"nodeType":116},{},[1152,1159],{"data":1153,"content":1154,"nodeType":115},{},[1155],{"data":1156,"marks":1157,"value":1158,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Astigmatism means the cornea has an uneven shape, which can blur your vision at all distances.",{"data":1160,"content":1161,"nodeType":115},{},[1162,1165,1173],{"data":1163,"marks":1164,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":1166,"content":1168,"nodeType":151},{"uri":1167},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fastigmatism",[1169],{"data":1170,"marks":1171,"value":1172,"nodeType":106},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about astigmatism",{"data":1174,"marks":1175,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Astigmatism",{"__typename":822,"sys":1178,"panel":1180,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1207},{"id":1179},"7mc540GM3NCETmDMRwhmkD",{"json":1181},{"data":1182,"content":1183,"nodeType":116},{},[1184,1191],{"data":1185,"content":1186,"nodeType":115},{},[1187],{"data":1188,"marks":1189,"value":1190,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Do your eyes feel sore, tried or gritty? Dry eye could be the cause, making vision cloudy, or as if you have filmy eyes. ",{"data":1192,"content":1193,"nodeType":115},{},[1194,1197,1204],{"data":1195,"marks":1196,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":1198,"content":1199,"nodeType":151},{"uri":880},[1200],{"data":1201,"marks":1202,"value":1203,"nodeType":106},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about dry eye syndrome",{"data":1205,"marks":1206,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Dry eye syndrome",{"__typename":822,"sys":1209,"panel":1211,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1239},{"id":1210},"2sVn59qnW8fxP9NGi7MyE5",{"json":1212},{"data":1213,"content":1214,"nodeType":116},{},[1215,1222],{"data":1216,"content":1217,"nodeType":115},{},[1218],{"data":1219,"marks":1220,"value":1221,"nodeType":106},{},[],"This is a common condition where the edges of the eyelids become red and swollen. It can be a cause of chalazion.",{"data":1223,"content":1224,"nodeType":115},{},[1225,1228,1236],{"data":1226,"marks":1227,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":1229,"content":1231,"nodeType":151},{"uri":1230},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fblepharitis",[1232],{"data":1233,"marks":1234,"value":1235,"nodeType":106},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about blepharitis",{"data":1237,"marks":1238,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Blepharitis",{"__typename":822,"sys":1241,"panel":1243,"link":17,"faqCategory":17,"header":1271},{"id":1242},"15AA3Z4bep1QE8k6Sffj1T",{"json":1244},{"data":1245,"content":1246,"nodeType":116},{},[1247,1254],{"data":1248,"content":1249,"nodeType":115},{},[1250],{"data":1251,"marks":1252,"value":1253,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Cloudy, misty or blurred vision could be a sign of cataracts, particularly in bright conditions or at night.",{"data":1255,"content":1256,"nodeType":115},{},[1257,1260,1268],{"data":1258,"marks":1259,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],{"data":1261,"content":1263,"nodeType":151},{"uri":1262},"\u002Feye-health\u002Feye-conditions\u002Fcataract",[1264],{"data":1265,"marks":1266,"value":1267,"nodeType":106},{"chevron-link":16},[],"Learn more about cataracts",{"data":1269,"marks":1270,"value":160,"nodeType":106},{},[],"Cataracts",{"__typename":1273,"sys":1274,"title":1276,"body":17,"backgroundTheme":818,"actionCardEntriesCollection":1277},"ActionCardBanner",{"id":1275},"4B1jbqghJNAiamx8wh5lYr","Find out more",{"items":1278},[1279,1287,1295],{"title":1280,"body":1281,"imageAltText":1282,"linkText":1283,"linkUrl":1284,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1285},"Why do I need an eye test?","Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy.","A man undergoes an eye exam, looking into a slit lamp while an eye care professional examines his eye.","Check your vision","\u002Feye-tests\u002Fdo-i-need-an-eye-test",{"url":1286},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F0m0X2zxvzwmGgSdaLmKjr\u002F22b1fcb2cff0c095c09f43cb83998189\u002Feye-health_eyetest-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1288,"body":1289,"imageAltText":1290,"linkText":1291,"linkUrl":1292,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1293},"Your store visit explained","At Specsavers we are focused on caring for your eyes and giving you the best possible vision.","A optometrist operates an eye examination machine while an older man sits in front of it.","What to expect in-store","\u002Feye-tests\u002Fyour-store-visit-explained",{"url":1294},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F6QwhITwthLzuD6pL1VvWJi\u002Fffd60b36927947fd2f69c9b209caa785\u002Feye-health_storevisit-banner-545x273.webp",{"title":1296,"body":1297,"imageAltText":1298,"linkText":1299,"linkUrl":1300,"openLinkInANewBrowserTab":37,"image":1301},"More on eye tests","An eye test is not just about getting glasses – it is a vital health check for your eyes.","A friendly optometrist giving advice to a patient in the test room.","All about eye tests","\u002Feye-tests",{"url":1302},"https:\u002F\u002Fimages.ctfassets.net\u002Fuuaxywrybmpn\u002F5klEt6jTY53XMRkReMeHt9\u002F47f0f0e423a6f56d34cbcf07210ee0b1\u002Feye-health_eyetestinfo-banner-545x273.webp",{"__typename":1046,"sys":1304,"title":1306,"theme":1095,"listType":1307,"expandAccordion":37,"accordionEntriesCollection":1308},{"id":1305},"3BvnafBbHG7FFQlCN4OxeH","Terms & Conditions","Bullet",{"items":1309},[1310],{"__typename":1311,"body":1312},"TermsAndConditions",{"json":1313},{"data":1314,"content":1315,"nodeType":116},{},[1316],{"data":1317,"content":1318,"nodeType":115},{},[1319],{"data":1320,"marks":1321,"value":1322,"nodeType":106},{},[],"* Listed on a valid Medicare card without Optometry restrictions.",[17,17,17,17],1789182363494]