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The vitreous is a sac of jelly like substance that fills the eye, and gives it its shape. It is located behind the lens, and is attached to the retina.

As we get older, the vitreous shrinks in size causing it to tug on the retina. As a result, small clumps or particles may appear in the vitreous. Because they are suspended in this jelly like fluid, they often hang suspended and don’t float downward.

As light passes through the pupil and back onto the retina, some of the floaters may be located in this light path. If the light hits a floater, it will form a shadow on the back of the retina and may appear to you as a spot or bug moving around in your field of vision.

Sometimes when the shrinking vitreous tugs on the retina, it may cause you to see a flash of light. However, in rare instances, the retina may even tear from this tugging action causing a flash of light as well. This can be a serious condition which requires immediate attention.

For the most part, floaters and flashes are just an annoyance, but they can be signs of serious conditions such as retinal detachment. If you notice a sudden increase in the amount of floaters and flashes you see, consult your eye care provider immediately.

Contact lenses are a popular solution for people who need vision correction. However, you need an extensive eye examination to determine what type of contacts will work best for you. Once you receive your contacts it is important to follow proper steps to ensure that your contacts are clear, clean, moist and undamaged.

It is important to develop a routine when preparing and inserting your contacts. First, wash your hands with soap and water and dry them on a lint free towel. Next, rinse your contact lens with the proper solution to make sure it is clean and free of dust. Then, making sure that your finger is dry, place the lens on the tip of your finger and check to see if the lens is inside out.

The lens should appear to have a U shape. If it is a U shape with the top edges flared out, the lens is inside out. If you do apply the lens inside out it will be uncomfortable, but will not cause any damage.

Once the lens is on the tip of your finger properly you are ready to insert it.