Seeing Flashes of Light in Your Eye? Doctors Explain the Causes and Cures

Unexpected flashes of light in your eye can be alarming, and in many cases, it’s something that should be discussed with your doctor as soon as possible. That said, these bright flashes are not always an immediate cause for concern. Find out how to tell the difference from our experts. 

What causes flashes of light in the eye? 

There’s a clinical term for this sensation: photopsia, also referred to as visual disturbance, which describes the perception of lights flashing or flickering, sparkles, shapes, quick pops, spots or white fuzz without a light source actually entering the eye. 

The following are some of the most common causes of photopsia, particularly in women, according to experts:

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Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) 

This condition occurs when the vitreous gel (a clear, jelly-like substance) inside the eye shrinks and detaches from the retina, says optometrist Meenal Agarwal, MD. 

“As it tugs on the retina, it can stimulate it, causing the perception of flashing light,” she notes. “PVD is more common in women over 40, particularly those who are nearsighted (myopic).” 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, PVD is not painful and won’t harm your sight (though it can trigger pesky floaters or the appearance of “shooting stars”). But it is a sign to schedule an eye exam to ensure there are no additional underlying vision issues.

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Menopause

Hormonal fluctuations are also a leading cause of flashing light in the eye. While this is not one of the more prevalent symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, fluctuating estrogen levels increase the risk of PVD. 

Menopause can also be accompanied by migraines, which can trigger visual flashes of light, adds Shweta Patel, MDFACOG, OB/GYN, founder of Gaya Wellness and author of The Book of Hormones: The Ultimate Playbook for Women’s Health and Hormonal Balance Through Every Stage of Life. 

Ocular migraines, for example, can even cause those light flashes alone sans head pain, Dr. Patel notes. “Migraines can cause changes in brain activity, particularly in the visual cortex, leading to auras or visual stimulations, such as perceived flashes of light,” adds Dr. Agarwal. They can also make your eyes temporarily more light sensitive.

Blood pressure levels tend to rise during and after menopause as well, which can contribute to visual disturbances, including occasional flashes, she says. 

Retinal injury 

Retinal detachment, tears or holes can occur when the retina is pulled away or torn from its supporting tissues, triggering the perception of flashing lights, Dr. Agarwal explains. Anything from eye aging to an injury (like a hit on the head) can cause the condition.

“This is an ocular emergency—if you notice these symptoms, see your eye care professional immediately,” she advises. “Typically, the flashes are localized to the area of the retina being affected, and these flashing lights are in a certain spot/area that is being tugged on.” 

When to see a doctor about flashes of light in the eye

The source of these flashes may ultimately be relatively harmless, but you should always see your doctor to rule out and treat underlying health conditions. And if you notice sudden onset of white flashes, increase in flashes or if they are accompanied by new floaters, a dark curtain in your vision, vision loss or eye pain, see your doctor right away, says Dr. Agarwal. 

You should also seek medical attention if the flashes are associated with headaches, nausea or dizziness, she adds. 

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How to treat flashes of light in your eyes

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Once your doctor comes up with a treatment plan for the culprit behind your visual disturbances, you can also implement a few strategies at home to keep the flashes of light from worsening or becoming more frequent. 

Manage migraines

“This is key and can involve using over-the-counter medications, becoming familiar with your triggers and avoiding them as well as limiting caffeine and alcohol, as they are common migraine triggers,” says Dr. Agarwal. 

Make lifestyle modifications 

If your flashes of light are triggered by menopause, trying to balance your hormones as best you can is also helpful. Dr. Agarwal suggests focusing on managing stress, prioritizing quality sleep, staying hydrated (dehydration can contribute to visual disturbances), staying physically active and maintaining a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and essential vitamins.