Flashes of Light When Closing One Eye in Dark: Is It Normal?

Q: Flashes of Light When Closing One Eye in Dark: Is It Normal?

Hello： This is likely a flash of light caused by the retina being pulled. <br>If this has been occurring for three months and previous examinations showed no issues, and there have been no significant changes, it should not be a concern. <br>However, if the flashes have started r

Flashes of light when blinking one eye in a dark environment?

Hello doctor, I have floaters and I've noticed that when I close one eye in a dark area, I see fireworks-like flashes in the other eye, but this doesn't happen as much in bright areas.
Three months ago, I had an examination and the doctor said there were no issues.
Is this a normal condition? Thank you, doctor.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/09

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: This is likely a flash of light caused by the retina being pulled.
If this has been occurring for three months and previous examinations showed no issues, and there have been no significant changes, it should not be a concern.
However, if the flashes have started recently, it is advisable to have another examination.

Reply Date: 2022/01/09

More Info

Experiencing flashes of light when closing one eye in a dark environment can be concerning, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions like floaters (known as "myodesopsia" in medical terms). Your description suggests that you are observing a phenomenon that may be related to the way your retina is responding to changes in light and pressure, particularly in a dark setting.

When you close one eye in the dark, the eye that remains open is still processing visual information, albeit limited due to the lack of light. The flashes you describe, resembling fireworks, could be a result of several factors. One possibility is that the retina is experiencing a form of stimulation due to the contrast between the dark environment and the light that your eye is still perceiving. This can lead to the perception of light flashes, which are often benign.

In individuals with floaters, the vitreous gel inside the eye can pull on the retina, especially if there are changes in the vitreous structure. This pulling can sometimes trigger the photoreceptors in the retina, leading to the sensation of flashes of light. This phenomenon is known as "photopsia." Since you mentioned that you had an eye examination three months ago and were told that everything was normal, it is likely that what you are experiencing is not indicative of a serious problem, especially if there have been no new symptoms or changes since your last check-up.

However, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms. If the flashes become more frequent, intense, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as a sudden increase in floaters, a curtain-like shadow in your vision, or any significant changes in your visual field, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of retinal detachment or other serious conditions that require prompt intervention.

In summary, while the flashes of light you are experiencing when closing one eye in a dark environment may be a normal response of your retina, especially in the context of having floaters, it is always best to remain vigilant. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to consult with your eye care professional for further evaluation. Regular eye exams are vital, especially for individuals with high myopia and floaters, as they can help detect any potential issues early on.

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