Seeing flashes of light or lightning in your vision when there is no actual light source is a phenomenon known as photopsia . Although it can occur sporadically and be benign, in certain cases it is a warning sign that requires urgent ophthalmological evaluation, as it can indicate problems in the retina, such as tears or detachment.
At Clínica Nivaria , we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of visual disturbances such as photopsia. If you perceive lights that don't come from an external source, it's important to know what causes them, how they are diagnosed, and when to seek medical attention.
What are photopsias?
Photopsias are visual perceptions of flashes, bursts, or intermittent lights seen in the visual field without any actual light stimulus. They are commonly described as:
- White lights, lightning or sparks
- Appearance in the periphery of the visual field
- Brief episodes, which can last seconds or minutes
- Sometimes associated with eye movements or in the dark
They can affect one or both eyes , and their appearance should not be ignored , especially if accompanied by other visual symptoms.
Why do flashes of light occur?
Photopsias can have several causes. The most frequent are related to:
1. Retinal traction or stimulation
The retina is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. When mechanically stimulated , it can generate a false signal that the brain interprets as light, even though there is no actual stimulus.
This occurs in situations such as:
✔️ Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)
With age, the vitreous gel that fills the inside of the eye becomes more liquid and retracts, separating from the retina. This process can cause traction on the retina , leading to:
- Photopsias (flashes or flashes)
- Floaters (myodesopsia)
- Sensation of blurred vision
PVD is common after age 50 and is usually benign, but it can become complicated if it causes a tear in the retina .
✔️ Retinal tear or detachment
When the vitreous humor pulls forcefully on the retina, it can tear it. If left untreated, this can lead to a retinal detachment , a medical emergency that can cause vision loss.
Sudden, intense flashes of light are a characteristic symptom of this condition.
2. Migraine with aura
Some people experience photopsias as part of a migraine . In this case, the lights appear in both eyes and usually have distinct characteristics:
- Zigzag shapes or bright lines
- Lateral movement in the visual field
- Duration of 15 to 30 minutes
- They may be followed by a headache
This phenomenon is known as a visual aura . In some cases, it can occur without a subsequent headache (acephalgic migraine).
3. Eye or head injuries
A direct blow to the eye or head can produce a flashing sensation due to the sudden stimulation of the retina.
4. Neurological disorders (less frequent)
Some disorders of the central nervous system can cause photopsias, such as:
- Inflammation of the optic nerve (optic neuritis)
- Brain tumors or lesions
- Epilepsies with a visual component
These causes are less common, but should be considered if the flashes are accompanied by other neurological symptoms.
When should you see an ophthalmologist?
It is essential to differentiate between benign photopsias and photopsias associated with serious eye conditions . You should seek urgent medical attention if:
- The flashes appear suddenly and intensely
- They are accompanied by new floaters
- You notice a dark shadow or curtain in your field of vision
- You perceive a sudden decrease in vision
- Have you had a blow to the eye or head?
- You have recently had eye surgery
At Clínica Nivaria , we offer priority care for acute visual symptoms such as photopsias, especially if retinal involvement is suspected.
Evaluation and diagnosis at Clínica Nivaria
The study of photopsias requires a complete ophthalmological evaluation , which includes:
1. Detailed medical history
Aspects such as the following are explored:
- Form of onset (sudden or gradual)
- Characteristics of the flashes
- Associated symptoms (floaters, blurred vision, headache)
- Personal history: myopia, eye surgery, migraines, trauma
2. Ophthalmological examination
✔️ Slit-lamp examination
It allows observation of the anterior chamber of the eye and the vitreous humor.
✔️ Measurement of visual acuity and intraocular pressure
To rule out related visual impairments.
✔️ Fundus examination with pupillary dilation
It is key to observing the retina and detecting:
- Retinal tears
- Hemorrhages
- Retinal detachment
- Signs of vitreous traction
✔️ OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
Explore the retina and optic nerve in high resolution.
✔️ Ocular ultrasound
It is used if it is not possible to visualize the fundus of the eye (due to opacity, vitreous hemorrhage, etc.).
If a neurological cause is suspected, the ophthalmologist may refer the patient to neurology for further studies (CT scan, MRI, etc.).
Treatment of photopsias
Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause . The main options are as follows:
✅ Uncomplicated vitreous detachment
- It does not require treatment.
- Ophthalmological monitoring and symptom surveillance are recommended.
- In most cases, photopsias gradually disappear.
⚠️ Retinal tear or detachment
- Ophthalmological emergency.
- Laser treatment (photocoagulation) if there is a tear without detachment.
- Surgery (vitrectomy or retinopexy) if there is detachment.
The visual prognosis will depend on the degree of impairment and the speed with which attention is received.
💊 Migraine with aura
- It does not require eye treatment.
- Neurological management with specific medication.
- It may include preventative treatment in recurring cases.
Can light flashes be prevented?
In many cases, they cannot be prevented, as they are related to natural changes in the vitreous humor or retina. However, some measures help reduce the risk of complications :
- Regular eye exams , especially if you are over 50 or nearsighted.
- Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any new floaters or lights .
- Protect the eyes from the risk of trauma.
- Controlling diseases such as diabetes , which can affect the retina.
- If you suffer from migraines, follow a preventive neurological treatment .
Living with photopsias: is it possible?
If photopsias are not related to a serious pathology and disappear over time, many people learn to live with them without them significantly affecting their lives.
However, it is crucial to distinguish between a passing discomfort and a warning sign . The key lies in early diagnosis and proper follow-up.
Why choose Clínica Nivaria?
At Clínica Nivaria , located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, we offer:
- Priority attention should be given to symptoms such as flashes of light, loss of vision, or floaters.
- Ophthalmologists specializing in retina, vitreous and neuro-ophthalmology.
- Advanced technology : OCT, ocular ultrasound, digital fundus examination.
- Retinal and vitreous surgery in case of complications.
- Friendly service, clear information, and personalized follow-up.
We are committed to the prevention, diagnosis, and effective treatment of all visual impairments that may put your eye health at risk.
Flashes of light (photopsias) are a symptom that should never be ignored , especially if they appear suddenly, intensify, or are accompanied by other visual symptoms such as floaters or vision loss. They can be a sign of a problem with the vitreous humor or retina , which in some cases requires urgent intervention .
At Clínica Nivaria , we perform a thorough and rapid evaluation to identify the cause and apply the most appropriate treatment. Your vision deserves expert and timely care.
Do you see flashes of light? Don't ignore it.
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🕒 Specialized care for retina and acute visual symptoms.
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