Seeing an unexpected flash of light in your vision can be a strange and even slightly worrying experience. Fortunately, at Vivid Eye Care, we can help you understand what light flashes mean for your health and how to distinguish them from other visual symptoms, such as floaters.
High blood pressure can sometimes cause you to see flashing lights in your eyes. The delicate blood vessels inside your eyes are sensitive to changes in your body, including your blood pressure. When pressure is high, it can affect your vision in different ways.
What Are Eye Flashes & What Do They Look Like?
Eye flashes are sensations of light that appear in your field of vision without an actual light source. They can show up suddenly and disappear just as quickly, sometimes alongside spots in your vision known as eye floaters. People often describe these visual events in a few different ways:
- Bright spots or stars
- Zig-zag lines
- Bursts of light, like a camera flash
- Jagged lightning streaks
The Link Between High Blood Pressure & Your Vision
Your eyes rely on a network of tiny blood vessels for oxygen and nutrients. Elevated blood pressure can put stress on these vessels. This pressure can sometimes lead to changes in your vision.
Symptoms of Hypertension in the Eyes
When your blood pressure is high, it may cause noticeable issues with your vision. You might experience a few different symptoms. Some common signs include:
- Blurry or dimmed vision
- Headaches
- Visible blood spots on the white of your eye
How Blood Pressure Can Lead to Flashes
High blood pressure can impact the retina—the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. This added pressure can stress the blood vessels that supply the retina, which an optometrist can see with retinal imaging. This stress may trigger nerve cells, which your brain then interprets as flashes of light.
Other Common Causes of Flashing Lights
While blood pressure can be a factor, it’s not the only reason you may see flashes.
Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)
As you get older, the gel-like fluid inside your eye, called the vitreous, naturally changes. PVD occurs when this gel pulls away from the retina. While generally harmless, this process can sometimes lead to a retinal detachment. This gentle tugging action can create the sensation of flashing lights.
Migraines
Some people experience what is known as a visual aura before or during a migraine. These auras often include seeing flashing lights, shimmering lines, or blind spots. This is a temporary event related to brain activity that affects your vision.
Can Dehydration Cause Flashing Lights in Eyes?
When you don’t drink enough water, it can affect your whole body. Dehydration can contribute to issues like blurry vision from dry eyes or even trigger a migraine. Either of these situations could cause you to see flashes in your eyes.
When to Be Concerned About Flashing Lights
An occasional flash of light is often harmless. However, there are times when flashes signal a need for emergency eye care. Paying attention to any changes can help you know when to seek a professional opinion.
Signs of a More Serious Condition
It’s a good idea to take note if the flashes are new or seem different than before. You should be especially aware if the flashes appear with other new symptoms. Look for signs like:
- A sudden increase in flashes or floaters
- A shadow or dark curtain in your side vision
- Any loss of vision
Are Flashing Lights a Symptom of Stroke?
In some situations, sudden vision changes—including flashes—can be associated with a serious medical event. These are usually accompanied by other distinct symptoms throughout the body. The full context of your symptoms is important.
How a Comprehensive Eye Exam Can Help
The clearest way to get to the bottom of your eye flashes is with a thorough eye exam. An optometrist can look at the structures inside your eye to understand the cause. This helps you get accurate information about your vision.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
During your appointment, your optometrist performs a series of tests to check your vision and eye health. The process is straightforward and provides a full picture of your eye health.
Your Next Steps for Healthy Vision
Whether they are linked to blood pressure, age, or another factor, a visit to your eye doctor in Cranston Market and Meadows Mile can help you find the cause.
Your eyes and vision are precious, and our team at Vivid Eye Care is here to help preserve them. Schedule your comprehensive eye exam at one of our locations to get the answers you need.
