Why Do You See Flashing Lights When Blinking in Bright Light?

Blinking in bright light can cause the perception of seeing spots of light?

When moving from a dark area to a bright one, or when blinking against a white background, a brief flash of light may appear, but it lasts only for an instant before disappearing.
This phenomenon does not occur in the dark.
There is no myopia, and I have had mild floaters since childhood.
Could this be a retinal issue?

Xiao Xue, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/20

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, I have had mild floaters since childhood.
Could this be a retinal issue? Floaters are related to the vitreous body, but it is important to rule out problems such as retinal tears or retinal detachment.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Wen-Yuan, Director of Ophthalmology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2017/07/20

More Info

Seeing flashing lights or spots when transitioning from a dark environment to a bright one, or even when blinking in bright light, can be a common phenomenon that many people experience. This occurrence is often related to the way our eyes adapt to changes in light and how the visual system processes these changes.

When you move from a dark area to a brightly lit one, your eyes undergo a process called "light adaptation." This involves the photoreceptors in your retina adjusting to the increased light levels. During this adaptation period, you may experience temporary visual disturbances, such as flashes or spots of light. This is typically a normal response and not necessarily indicative of a serious problem, especially if the flashes are brief and resolve quickly.

The flashes you describe could also be related to the vitreous body, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age or due to certain conditions, the vitreous can pull away from the retina, leading to sensations of light flashes, especially when the eye is moved or blinked. This is often benign, but in some cases, it can be associated with retinal issues, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms like an increase in floaters or a shadow in your vision.

Since you mentioned having mild floaters (which is common and usually harmless), it’s important to monitor any changes in your vision. If the flashes become more frequent, last longer, or are accompanied by other visual disturbances, it would be prudent to consult an eye care professional for a comprehensive examination. They may perform tests such as a dilated eye exam or optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess the health of your retina and vitreous.

In summary, while the flashing lights you see when blinking in bright light or transitioning from dark to light are often benign and related to normal physiological processes, it’s essential to remain vigilant. If you notice any changes in your vision or if the phenomenon becomes bothersome, seeking medical advice is always a wise decision. Regular eye check-ups can help ensure that any potential issues are caught early, especially since you have a history of floaters.

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