Flashes, floaters and shadows: retina warning signs after an eye injury
What a retina specialist wants you to know about flashes, floaters and sudden shadows
A hard blow in a crash can hurt the retina even when the eye looks normal from the outside. The retina is a thin layer at the back of the eye that senses light. The blow can tear it or pull it loose, which doctors call a detachment. If treatment is delayed, a detached retina can do lasting harm to your sight. [1]
A retina specialist will dilate, or widen, your pupil to look at the back of the eye. Then the specialist decides whether you need treatment. [1]
Sudden changes in what you see
Watch for a burst of new floaters, flashes of light or blurry vision. Another sign is a dark shadow that seems to block part of your view. These changes may not hurt at all. [1, 2]
Cover one eye at a time to learn which eye has the problem. Don’t lose time checking it again and again. Call urgent eye care or go to an emergency department right away. Do not wait to see if a shadow goes away. [1, 2]
Learn what the eye exam showed
An eye doctor may dilate your pupil to look for a tear or detachment. If something blocks the view, you may need another test. Ask whether a tear was found. Find out if you need treatment, such as laser, freezing or surgery. Ask what checkups are planned next. [1]
Even if your first exam looks fine, take any new symptoms seriously later on. [1]
Caring for your eye after a repair
After a repair, ask about eye drops, how you should position yourself, work, driving and travel. Some operations leave a gas bubble inside the eye. Flying and some other activities can be dangerous until your surgeon says the bubble is gone. Go back urgently if your vision gets worse or the warning signs return. [1, 2]
Questions for the retina specialist
- Did I have a retinal tear, a detachment or some other eye injury?
- What new symptom means I must come back right away?
- Do I have limits on positioning, driving or flying?
Keep the eye clinic number close
Keep the urgent eye clinic’s phone number where you can find it. When you call, describe any new shadow, flashes or sudden jump in floaters. [1]
Sources and further reading
This article shares general information from a retina specialist’s point of view. A new curtain or shadow, sudden flashes or a lot of new floaters need an urgent eye exam.
Keep learning
Safe Driving Resource Center
Guides, self-checks and articles for drivers, parents of new drivers, and families recovering after a crash.
