Understanding Visual Flashes: Causes and When to Seek Help

Have you ever found yourself seeing lights or bright flashes out of the corner of your eye when there is nothing apparent in your peripheral vision? While these visual phenomena can sometimes be harmless, they can also indicate underlying health issues that require attention. This article explores the common causes of visual flashes and when it is advisable to consult an eye specialist.

Common Causes of Visual Flashes

Visual flashes are often caused by the vitreous humour or changes in the retina. The vitreous humour is a gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye and shrinks as we age, leading to vitreous detachment. When this happens, the vitreous may temporarily pull on the retina causing flashes of light. Retinal issues, such as retinal detachment, can also cause visual flashes due to retinal tears or damage.

Another common cause of visual flashes is migraine headaches. Approximately 28% of people with migraines experience aura, which can manifest as visual disturbances such as flashes or sparkles in the peripheral vision. These auras can last from a few minutes to an hour.

When to Seek Professional Help

While occasional visual flashes are not always a cause for concern, persistent or frequent flashes should be evaluated by an eye care specialist. Persistent visual flashes may indicate a more serious underlying condition such as retinal detachment, which can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is crucial to seek an eye examination:

Persistent or worsening visual flashes Flashes accompanied by other visual symptoms such as floaters, blurriness, or dark shadows in the field of vision Sudden or severe increase in the number of floaters Pain in the eye or head in conjunction with flashes

Other Potential Causes of Visual Flashes

Visual flashes can also be caused by digital eye strain, particularly when looking at bright screens, such as smartphones or tablets. However, persistent flashes that occur at night or are accompanied by other symptoms should be evaluated by an eye specialist.

Conclusion

While visual flashes can be a benign occurrence, they can also signal underlying retinal or ocular issues. If you are experiencing persistent or worrisome visual flashes, it is advisable to consult with an eye care specialist for proper evaluation and treatment. For more information on eye health and related symptoms, please visit my Quora Profile.

References

1. National Eye Institute. (2021). Retinal Detachment. detachment 2. American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2019). Vitreous Detachment. 3. Migraine Research Foundation. (2023). Migraine with Aura.