Fireworks, lightning streaks, kaleidoscopes of bright lights, shooting stars, and camera flashes can all be described as flashes of light in your vision. So, if you’re thinking why am I seeing flashes of light in the corner of my eye? We are here to uncover the reason you might be seeing these flashes and how you can take action. At the Annan Retina Eye Center, we strongly advise making an appointment with Dr. El Annan for a consultation if you are experiencing any changes in vision or these flashes of light.
The flashes (also known as photopsia) in your vision are associated with the vitreous humor, a gel-like substance that allows light to enter the lens. When the gel bumps into the retina it can result in these flashes of light. However, there are various reasons that this vitreous humor can be bumped or pulled:
Aging (the vitreous can change in shape or size with age, also known as vitreous degeneration)
Pressure on the retina (resulted from getting hit in the eye or rubbing your eyes aggressively)
Detatched retina (This occurs if the vitreous gel is pulled too hard. We discuss what can happen if this is untreated here, so it’s important to seek consultation immediately if experiencing flashes or floaters in your vision)
Diabetic Retinopathy (an eye condition that may develop if you are diabetic type 1 or type 2, which you can read more about here.
Specific Medications can result in flashers (Be sure to discuss this with your ophthalmologist in order to make sure the medication you are taking isn’t the cause)
Depending on the underlying condition, the treatment will vary. Photopsia could result in surgery, treatment, or just keeping a watchful eye. It’s valuable to your ophthalmologist that when you are asking “why am I seeing flashes of light in the corner of my eye?” to also take mental notes before in order to better explain your symptoms. Paying attention to when the flashes started, how frequently you notice them, and if there are any other symptoms to keep track of can be key in discovering your treatment plan. Your ophthalmologist can then understand better how and when this change in vision occurred in order to treat the underlying condition.
In conclusion, if you are asking yourself why am I seeing flashes of light in the corner of my eye…don’t wait until potential permanent vision damage is done, please schedule a visit with Dr. El Annan at the Annan Retina Eye Center as soon as possible. Please call 346-222-6626 to speak to a member of staff who will be more than happy to help you.
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