Why Do I See Flashes of Light in the Corner of my Eye?

Our Team

7/26/2019

Your eyes play a major role in connecting you to the world around you and the people you love. When you experience vision disturbances like flashers or floaters, it is natural to worry. An eye exam with one of Kirk Eye Center’s experienced doctors is the best way to find out if your concern is warranted.

Kirk Eye Center has served patients in the Chicago area for over 50 years. Our doctors are patient-oriented and highly-skilled. We take the time to gather all relevant information and do a thorough exam, so we can accurately diagnose and treat our patients.

 

Seeing Flashes Of Light

Streaks of light that appear briefly in your visual field are known as flashers. Some patients compare these flashes to lightning or shooting stars.

It is not uncommon to see occasional flashes of light, and in many cases, there may be no cause for concern. However if you experience frequent, persistent, or increasing occurrences of eye flashers, we recommend that you schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.

 

Why Do I See Flashes Of Light In My Eye?

Eye flashers are associated with the vitreous humor inside your eye. Vitreous humor is a gel-like substance that fills the majority of your eyeball. This gel allows light to enter the eye via the lens, and it is connected to the retina. If vitreous gel bumps or pulls on the retina, you may see flashes of light in the corner of your eye. The following conditions can result in flashers:

  • Aging - As you get older, the vitreous can shrink or change, causing flashes of light. Your likelihood of seeing flashes of light increases with age.
  • Pressure on the retina - Rubbing your eyes too hard or getting hit in the eye can cause the vitreous to bump the retina, causing eye flashers.
  • Migraine – Vision disturbances can be caused by a migraine. Shimmering lights, dots, sparkles, and flashes of light may occur as part of a migraine.

 

Are Eye Flashes Serious?

Given how important your vision is, it’s understandable that your first thought after seeing a flash of light in your eye would be to wonder if your vision is at risk. While many instances of eye flashers are considered normal, in some cases, they are caused by a serious condition with your retina.

 

Retinal Tear or Detachment

In rare cases, the vitreous can pull the retina hard enough to tear it, peeling it from its position at the back of your eye. Flashers can occur as the result of a torn or detached retina.

Sudden onset of new eye flashers, persistent flashers, a floater shower, and flashes of light accompanied by blurry vision are all indications that you should see one of our qualified doctors as soon as possible. Retina surgery or other interventions may be needed to prevent blindness.

 

Schedule An Eye Exam In Gurnee, Illinois

The doctors at Kirk Eye Center have the technology, the facilities, and the experience to determine whether your eye flashers are serious. Early intervention is key to preserving your vision and eye health. Call us today to schedule an appointment at our Gurnee or River Forest locations.

 

Great overall experience with my Lasik procedure for both my eyes. Dr. Kirk & the staff were fantastic throughout the entire process. I'm so pumped that I don't have to wear contacts or glasses ever again!

B.M. Google

This is the second time I’ve been to Kirk Eye Center on Harlem. I could not be more pleased. I’ve never had to wait more than a minute or 2 after I arrive. Everyone is friendly and helpful. I’ve seen the technician Rose and Dr Kirk Jr both times and enjoyed being assisted by both. There is even plenty of parking. Glad to have them caring for my diabetic and other needs

E.T. Google

This is absolutely no exaggeration. Dr Tyler Kirk saved my right eye. He is the reason I have vision in that eye. I will be a Kirk Eye Center customer for life!

S.H. Google

Gurnee Kirk is my "go to home office". Recently had the Femto/Lasik cataract surgery at the surgical center in River Forest. I cannot begin to tell you how professional and yet personal everyone was I came in contact with. From the doctors and technicians, to staff and even the terrific van driver. Everything went so smoothly and I was informed every inch of the way in a very successful procedure. Even the followups being turned over to my long time Optometrist just down the street from me. Five stars is not enough... twenty or more is necessary. Choose Kirk Eye Center, you'll always be grateful you did. Darrell May, Antioch IL.

D.M. Google

Had cataract surgery on both eyes and they took very good care of me would highly recommend them.

R.S. Google

640

Total Reviews

4.9

Average Rating

privacy We respect your privacy
* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.