HomeAnswersOphthalmology (Eye Care)retinal damageWhy am I seeing flashes of light in side vision?

Is it normal to see flashes of light in side vision?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Divya Banu M

Published At April 30, 2019
Reviewed AtJuly 18, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Sometimes I see flashes of light as kind of line in the side vision. That too where more light focus is there on the walls, etc. That too if I observe clearly.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Such flashes of light can be seen in a number of different conditions. A retinal examination will be able to rule out the more dangerous ocular cause-retinal detachment. Usually, such flashes can be seen in posterior vitreous detachment, which is a benign age-related condition and does not require any treatment. The last possibility is of fortification spectra seen in migraine. These are usually immediately followed by a migrainous headache. To put all of this in a nutshell, in case you have any drop in vision, a sensation of multiple floating objects or non-seeing areas in your field of vision, I advise you to get a second opinion. In case you have flashes accompanied by headaches, meet with a neurologist. In case you just have flashes and no other problems, given that you have a normal retina, I suggest that you just observe your condition for a while and get back to your ophthalmologist in case of any changes in symptoms.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Manjunath Natarajan
Dr. Manjunath Natarajan

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

retinal damagemigraine

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy