What causes flashes in your eye?

There are several potential causes for flashes in your eye:

1. Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD): This is a common condition that occurs when the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the inside of your eye, pulls away from the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of your eye. As the vitreous detaches, it can exert traction on the retina, causing flashes of light. PVD is a natural part of aging and usually does not cause any problems, but it can sometimes lead to retinal tears or detachment, which can be serious.

2. Retinal tear: A retinal tear is a small break in the retina. Retinal tears can occur due to trauma, or they can develop as a complication of other conditions, such as PVD or diabetic retinopathy. Retinal tears can cause flashes of light, and they can also lead to retinal detachment, which is a medical emergency.

3. Retinal detachment: A retinal detachment is a serious condition in which the retina separates from the back of the eye. Retinal detachment can occur due to trauma, or it can develop as a complication of other conditions, such as PVD or diabetic retinopathy. Retinal detachment can cause flashes of light, as well as other symptoms, such as decreased vision, floaters, and a dark curtain or shadow in your vision.

4. Migraines: Migraines are a type of severe headache that can also cause flashes of light, known as migraine auras. Migraine auras typically occur before the headache pain begins, and they can last for several minutes or even hours.

5. Other medical conditions: In rare cases, flashes of light can be a symptom of other medical conditions, such as:

- Optic nerve inflammation (optic neuritis)

- Brain tumors

- Infections, such as herpes zoster (shingles)

- Drug side effects

- Certain neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis

If you are experiencing flashes of light in your eyes, it is important to see an eye doctor for evaluation to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment if necessary.