Unexplained flickers in peripheral vision: Sources and appropriate actions
In our daily lives, we often encounter sudden flashes of light in our peripheral vision. While these instances are usually harmless, they can sometimes signal a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
The retina, a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, processes light and sends impulses to the brain. Changes in the retina can lead to flashes of light, also known as photopsia. If you notice a sudden increase in the number of floaters (small shapes in vision), flashes of light, especially in peripheral or side vision, loss of peripheral vision, or a shadow, curtain, or gray area obscuring part of your visual field, it's crucial to seek immediate medical advice[1][2][3][4][5].
These symptoms could indicate vitreous detachment or a more severe condition, such as retinal tear or retinal detachment. As the vitreous body - a gel between the retina and lens that protects the retina and maintains the eye's structure - changes shape, it can pull on the retina, causing flashes[6]. In some cases, this can lead to holes or tears in the retina, potentially resulting in retinal detachment or bleeding in the eye[3][4][5].
Occasionally, flashes can be caused by eye trauma or medical conditions such as Occipital Epilepsy, where seizures can affect vision, causing the person to see flashing lights and multicoloured spots[4]. Stickler syndrome, a rare genetic condition, can also increase the risk of developing retinal detachment, leading to flashes and floaters, and can cause distinct facial features such as a small chin and cleft palate[7].
Migraines can also cause visual disturbances, including flashes of light[8]. However, it's important to note that anxiety is not a common cause of flashes in the eyes, although some people report anxiety causing vision problems that include seeing stars or shimmers[2].
Diagnosis for flashing lights in the eyes will include an eye examination, a dilated fundus exam, scleral depression, and using a specific lens for inspecting the retina[9]. Treatment for conditions like Occipital Epilepsy includes antiepileptic drugs to prevent seizures[4]. For Stickler syndrome, there is currently no cure, and treatment depends on the specific symptoms a person experiences[7].
In conclusion, while occasional flashes are usually harmless, any sudden change in floaters or flashes warrants a comprehensive eye exam to rule out serious underlying problems[1][2][3][4][5]. Prompt consultation with an eye care professional or emergency eye facility is crucial to prevent permanent vision damage.
- Multiple sclerosis, a neurological disorder, is not typically associated with flashes of light, but it can cause other vision problems like blurring and double vision.
- Arthritis, a common health-and-wellness issue, does not directly lead to flashes in the eyes, but some arthritic medications may cause visual disturbances as a side effect.
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a type of cancer that rarely presents with symptoms related to flashing lights in the eyes, but it can cause coughing, chest pain, and weight loss.
- Psoriatic arthritis, a type of arthritis that affects people with psoriasis, can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, not flashes of light in the eyes.
- Aquaporin (AQ) is a water channel protein, not a medical condition that causes flashes of light in the eyes, but its dysfunction can lead to various health issues, including obesity and neurological disorders.
- Depression, a mental health disorder, is not associated with flashes of light in the eyes, but it can lead to symptoms like irritability, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities.
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a lung disease, does not directly affect the eyes or cause flashes, but it can lead to vision problems due to hypoxia or high blood pressure in the eyes.
- Predictive analysis in science and medicine can help identify underlying conditions associated with flashes of light in the eyes, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or migraine, but a thorough medical examination is still required for accurate diagnosis.
