Flashing Lights in Vision: Causes and Concerns

There are flashing lights in front of my eyes?

Hello doctor, two months ago I underwent a dilated eye exam and was diagnosed with floaters.
Last week, I was also checked for night blindness, and I need to continue monitoring and undergo tests like electroretinography.
Recently, I've noticed that when I wake up in the morning and open my eyes, if light hits my eyes, I see a bright halo flashing.
I also experience this phenomenon when I look at the sky or suddenly at a bright light.
It lasts for a while and then disappears.
When I walk outside at night in the dark and then enter a brightly lit area, my eyes sometimes react to these lights with a flashing sensation, but it also only lasts for a short time.
I’m wondering if this is related to my photoreceptor cells, or if it’s associated with vitreous degeneration, or if it’s a type of photophobia.
Should I go back to the hospital for further examination? Thank you.

Ms. Hsieh, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/19

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Observe the symptoms, and if they persist, seek medical evaluation.

Reply Date: 2023/01/19

More Info

Flashing lights in vision can be a concerning symptom, especially for individuals with pre-existing eye conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness) and floaters. Your recent experiences of seeing bright halos or flashes of light when transitioning from dark to bright environments, or upon waking up, can be attributed to several potential causes, which I will explain in detail.

1. Photophobia (Light Sensitivity): The phenomenon you describe, where bright lights cause a flash or halo effect, may be related to photophobia. This condition can occur due to various reasons, including inflammation, dry eyes, or even certain medications. When your eyes are exposed to sudden bright light after being in a dark environment, the pupils constrict rapidly, and this adjustment can sometimes lead to visual disturbances such as halos or flashes.

2. Vitreous Degeneration: Given your history of floaters, it is possible that you are experiencing changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye. As we age or due to high myopia, the vitreous can become more liquid and may pull away from the retina, leading to flashes of light. These flashes are often described as brief bursts of light that can occur in peripheral vision. If you notice these flashes frequently or if they are accompanied by a sudden increase in floaters, it is crucial to seek an eye examination to rule out retinal detachment.

3. Retinal Issues: Your previous diagnosis of night blindness and the need for follow-up tests like an electroretinogram suggest that there may be underlying retinal issues. Conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa can lead to night blindness and may also affect how your eyes respond to light. If your retina is compromised, it could lead to abnormal visual responses, including flashes or halos when exposed to bright light.

4. Adaptation to Light: The human eye requires time to adapt when moving between different lighting conditions. This adaptation process involves the photoreceptors in the retina adjusting to the new light levels. If your eyes are slow to adapt, you may experience temporary visual disturbances, including flashes or halos, as your eyes adjust.

5. Need for Further Evaluation: Given your symptoms and existing eye conditions, it is advisable to return to your eye care provider for a comprehensive examination. They may perform additional tests, including a dilated fundus examination, to assess the health of your retina and vitreous. It is essential to monitor any changes in your vision, especially if you experience new flashes, an increase in floaters, or any changes in your peripheral vision.

In summary, while the flashing lights you are experiencing could be related to normal physiological responses of the eye, they could also signify underlying issues that require attention. It is crucial to maintain regular check-ups with your eye care professional, especially given your history of myopia and night blindness. Early detection and intervention can help prevent potential complications, such as retinal detachment, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not addressed promptly.

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