Do Eye Flashes Go Away?

If you are experiencing eye flashes — streaks or lightening-like flashes of light in your field of vision — it may be a sign of a serious medical eye condition. Our eyes are one of the most important organs in the body because they give us the ability of sight. However, there are many medical conditions that can compromise our vision, with some resulting in a decreased ability to focus or the loss of vision itself.

Most disorders that affect the eye will likely affect vision in some way, with random eye flashes being a relatively common symptom. These may appear as flashes of light in the corner of the eye, flashes of light in the peripheral vision or even as flashes of light in both eyes.

Symptoms and Causes of Eye Flashes

When the vitreous fluid in your eye rubs or pulls against the retina, you may see what looks like a flash of light or lightning streaks. This sensation can also be experienced if you have been struck in the eye and see a bright light before regaining vision. 

These flashes of light can appear off and on for several weeks or months. As we grow older, it is more common to experience flashes.

Diagnosing the Cause of Eye Flashes

Most causes of eye flashes can be determined through a thorough vision exam by our doctors. If the cause of the symptoms is not seen during your standard examination, our doctors may order additional testing, such as an ultrasound of the eye.

Treatment for Eye Flashes

The treatment for eye flashes depends on the underlying condition. With treatment, eye flashes should go away. It usually takes about a month, but sometimes it can take up to 6 months for them to completely disappear. While not all eye flashes are serious, you should always have a medical eye examination by an ophthalmologist to make sure there has been no damage to your retina.

For more information about eye flashes or to schedule an eye examination in Phoenix, contact Associated Retina Consultants at 602-242-4928 or website today.