Flashes in Vision: What They Mean and When to Worry

When you see sudden flashes in vision, brief streaks or sparks of light that appear without an external source. Also known as photopsia, it’s not something you should ignore—even if it only happens once.

These flashes often link to changes in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance inside your eye. As you age, this gel shrinks and pulls away from the retina, causing tugging sensations your brain interprets as light. That’s called vitreous detachment, a common, usually harmless condition in people over 50. But sometimes, that same pull can tear the retina—a much bigger problem. A torn retina can lead to retinal detachment, a medical emergency where the retina peels off the back of the eye. Without quick treatment, it can cause permanent vision loss.

Not all flashes mean your retina is at risk. Many people see them before or during a migraine aura, a neurological event that can cause visual distortions without a headache. These flashes often look like zigzag lines, shimmering spots, or blind spots that slowly spread across your vision. They usually last 20 to 60 minutes and go away on their own. If you get these regularly and have no other symptoms, it’s likely a migraine variant—not an eye emergency.

But here’s the thing: you can’t tell the difference on your own. A flash from a harmless vitreous tug looks identical to one from a retinal tear. That’s why any new, sudden flashes—especially if they come with floaters, a shadow over your vision, or sudden blurry spots—need a professional check. It’s not about being overly cautious. It’s about catching something serious before it’s too late. Many people delay seeing a doctor because they think it’s just eye strain or tiredness. But eyes don’t lie. If your vision is sending you signals, listen.

The posts below cover everything from how eye medications affect vision changes, to how conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure increase your risk of retinal problems. You’ll also find real stories from people who ignored early signs and what happened next. Whether you’re seeing flashes occasionally or constantly, these articles give you the facts to decide what to do next—without the scare tactics.