What Causes Flashes of Light in Vision

Have you ever had flashes in your vision? Do you wonder what causes these flashes and what they are? Eye flashes or flashing lights in the field of vision are similar to eye floaters. They happen when the vitreous gel in the eye rubs or pulls on the retina. You may see lightning streaks or flashing lights in the vision.

This is similar to what a person feels when they get hit in the head or hit in the eye. It’s what is often called “seeing stars”. This is a natural occurrence which can be off and on for several weeks or even months after the incident which caused it.

Eye flashes are more common in people as they grow older because the vitreous gel in the eye changes and often starts to thicken or clump. Usually, these flashes are temporary and they do not indicate a serious condition. However, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and have it checked out anyway.

If you experience sudden and unexplained occurrence of light flashes, it’s especially important to see your ophthalmologist right away. This could be a symptom of a torn retina which requires immediate treatment to protect the eye and vision.

Eye flashes can also be related to migraines. When you experience jagged lines or “heat waves” in both eyes which last from 10 to 20 minutes, this is usually caused by a spasm of blood vessels in the brain, called a migraine. If this happens frequently, there are treatment options available from your doctor.