Diseases

Eye Flashers

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When the vitreous gel inside your eye rubs or pulls on the retina, you may see what looks like flashing lights or lightening streaks. You may have experienced this sensation if you have ever been hit in the eye and see "stars." These flashes of light can appear off and on for several weeks or months.

SYMPTOMS

This separation, called retinal detachment, can lead to permanent vision loss. Retinal tears and detachments are painless. Key warning signs include: a new onset of floaters and flashes of light in the eye.

CAUSES

They are caused by clumps or specks of undissolved vitreous gel material floating in the dissolved gel-like fluid (vitreous) in the back of the eye, which cast shadows on the retina when light enters the eye.