Seeing flashes or light in your central or peripheral vision signifies an issue with your eyes. This issue often occurs when the vitreous, which is a jelly-like substance between the lens and the retina, becomes more liquid than jelly. There are a few issues that can cause flashes, some being serious. At Dr. Beth Frankel in Scottsdale, AZ, we will diagnose and treat your condition. Dr. Frankel is committed to keeping your eye health and vision at their best.
Risk Factors for Eye Flashes
There are a few different issues that can cause eye flashes. Anyone can develop them at any time. However, there are factors that increase your risk of flashes, including:
- Being over 50 years old
- Being nearsighted
- Eye trauma
- Complications following cataract surgery
- Inflammation of the eye
- Having diabetic retinopathy
Common Causes of Eye Flashes
There are a few reasons why you may be experiencing eye flashes. You will need to schedule an appointment with our optometrist to determine what it is that is causing the flashes in your vision.
- Age-related eye changes: The most common cause of flashes are age-related changes. As you age, the jelly-like substance that fills your eyeballs to keeps them round can begin to change. Over time, the jelly can liquefy, causing it to pull away from the inside surface of the eyeball. This can cause the vitreous to sag and shrink, causing you to see flashes in your central or peripheral vision.
- Inflammation in the back of the eye: A condition called posterior uveitis can cause flashes. This condition occurs when the layers of the uvea and the back of the eye become inflamed. This condition causes inflammatory debris to be released into the vitreous, which can cause eye flashes and floaters.
- Torn retina: A retinal tear can occur if the vitreous is sagging, and it tugs on the retina. When it pulls with adequate force, it can cause a retinal detachment, which is very serious. The retina can become completely detached when fluid accumulates behind the retina, causing it to split from the back of the eye. The first signs of a torn retina are flashes and floaters. If you don't see our optometrist as soon as the symptoms begin, the retina can tear, which puts you at risk for permanent vision loss.
- Optic neuritis: This condition can occur when the optic nerve becomes inflamed. It is caused by infections or nerve-related conditions, such as multiple sclerosis. One of the first symptoms of optic neuritis is flashes of light.
- Excessive pressure on the retina: Excessive eye rubbing, coughing too hard, or getting hit in the head can all put pressure on the retina, causing flashes. A blow to the head can be serious, and should be checked by our eye doctor.
Visit Our Optometrist in Scottsdale, AZ for Flashes Treatment
If you are experiencing eye flashes, visit our eye doctor. At Dr. Beth Frankel in Scottsdale, AZ, we will diagnose your condition and provide treatment for whatever is causing your flashes. Dr. Frankel will answer any questions you have. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
