Why Am I Seeing Flashes of Light? By Dr Rupal Morjaria

A sudden flash catches your eye.

You turn your head, but nothing is there.

It happens again a few moments later, perhaps in a dark room or out of the corner of your vision.

Seeing flashes of light can be unsettling. While they are often caused by natural changes inside the eye, they can sometimes be an early warning sign of a more serious retinal problem that requires urgent assessment.

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What are flashes of light?

Flashes of light, also known as photopsia, are brief bursts or streaks of light that appear even though there is no external light source.

Many people describe them as:

• Camera flashes.

• Lightning streaks.

• Sparkles.

• Flickering lights in their side vision.

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They are often most noticeable in darker environments or when moving your eyes quickly.

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What causes flashes of light?

The most common cause is changes within the vitreous gel that fills the inside of the eye.

As we get older, the vitreous naturally becomes more liquid and can pull away from the retina. This is known as a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).

As the vitreous tugs on the retina, it can stimulate the light-sensitive cells, causing you to see flashes even though no light is entering the eye.

For many people, this is a normal part of ageing and does not damage vision.

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When should I be concerned?

Although flashes are often harmless, they can sometimes indicate a retinal tear or retinal detachment.

You should seek urgent assessment if you notice:

• A sudden increase in flashes.

• A sudden shower of new floaters.

• A curtain or shadow coming across your vision.

• Loss of side vision.

• Sudden reduction in vision.

• Flashes occurring after an eye injury.

  
  

These symptoms require prompt examination because early treatment of a retinal tear can often prevent a retinal detachment.

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Could it be something else?

Yes.

Not every flash of light originates from the retina.

Other possible causes include:

• Ocular migraines.

• Migraine aura.

• Inflammation inside the eye.

• Previous eye surgery.

• Less commonly, neurological conditions.

  
  

A detailed examination helps determine the underlying cause and whether treatment is required.

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How are flashes of light investigated?

A thorough examination allows the retina and vitreous to be assessed carefully.

Your consultation may include:

• Assessment of your symptoms.

• Examination of the vitreous gel.

• A detailed retinal examination.

• Dilating eye drops where appropriate to examine the retina fully.

  
  

The aim is to identify whether the flashes are part of a normal vitreous change or whether a retinal tear or another condition is present.

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What tests may be needed?

If you are experiencing flashes of light, it is important to assess the health of both the central and peripheral retina.

As one of the few specialists offering a comprehensive retinal assessment using both OCT and Optos widefield imaging, I am able to assess both the central retina and the retinal periphery using advanced diagnostic technology.

Optos widefield imaging represents the forefront of retinal imaging technology, allowing much more of the retina to be examined in a single scan than conventional retinal photography.

This provides a more complete understanding of your retinal health and helps identify retinal tears, retinal detachments and other conditions that may not be visible during a routine eye examination.

What is an OCT?

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) uses light waves to produce highly detailed cross-sectional images of the retina.

Although flashes are usually caused by changes in the vitreous or peripheral retina, OCT helps assess the macula and identify any underlying retinal disease affecting your central vision.

What is Optos Widefield Imaging?

Optos captures an ultra-widefield image of the retina, allowing up to 200 degrees of the inside of the eye to be examined in a single image.

This advanced imaging technology is particularly valuable for detecting retinal tears, retinal holes, retinal detachments and other abnormalities affecting the peripheral retina.

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How are flashes of light treated?

Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause.

If flashes are due to a simple posterior vitreous detachment without any retinal damage, treatment is often not required, although monitoring may be recommended while symptoms settle.

If a retinal tear is identified, prompt laser treatment may be performed to reduce the risk of retinal detachment.

If a retinal detachment has already occurred, urgent surgery may be necessary to preserve vision.

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Why choosing the right specialist matters

Although flashes of light are often part of the normal ageing process, they should never be ignored if they develop suddenly or are accompanied by new floaters or changes in vision.

As a Consultant Ophthalmologist specialising in Medical Retina, I regularly assess patients with flashes of light using advanced retinal imaging to distinguish harmless vitreous changes from sight-threatening retinal disease.

Early diagnosis can make a significant difference to protecting your vision.

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Bottom line

Flashes of light are common and are often caused by natural changes inside the eye.

However, they can occasionally be the first sign of a retinal tear or retinal detachment.

If your symptoms are new, worsening or accompanied by floaters or vision loss, prompt assessment is essential to ensure the health of your retina and protect your sight.

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Considering your next step

A consultation with me will provide:

• A comprehensive assessment of your flashes of light and retinal health.

• Advanced OCT and Optos retinal imaging where appropriate.

• A clear explanation of the cause of your symptoms.

• A personalised management plan tailored to your individual needs.

• Reassurance and ongoing care from an experienced Consultant Ophthalmologist.

  
  

If you would like clarity, reassurance and a plan you feel confident in, I would be very happy to see you in clinic and guide you through your options.

Contact details and appointments, click here.