From the Research
Several conditions unrelated to the eyes can cause you to see flashes of light, including migraine headaches, occipital lobe seizures, head trauma, low blood pressure, certain medications, stress, and anxiety, as well as multiple sclerosis, which can cause optic neuritis and produce flashing lights 1.
Non-Ophthalmic Conditions Causing Photopsia
The following conditions are known to cause photopsia:
- Migraine headaches, which can produce visual disturbances called auras that often precede the headache pain, appearing as zigzag lines, shimmering spots, or flashing lights
- Occipital lobe seizures, which affect the visual processing area of the brain and can produce brief flashes or colored lights in the field of vision
- Head trauma or concussion, which may cause temporary visual disturbances including flashes
- Low blood pressure or circulation issues, which can lead to reduced blood flow to the retina or brain, causing momentary flashes or "seeing stars"
- Certain medications, particularly some psychotropic drugs, antidepressants, and stimulants, which list visual disturbances as potential side effects
- Stress and anxiety, which can sometimes manifest as visual phenomena including flashes
- Multiple sclerosis, which can cause optic neuritis, inflammation of the optic nerve that may produce flashing lights
Importance of Medical Attention
If you experience unexplained flashes of light, especially if they're new, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like headache or dizziness, you should seek medical attention promptly as these could indicate serious neurological conditions requiring treatment 1.
Key Considerations
When evaluating patients with photopsia, it is essential to consider the potential causes and risk factors, including the presence of subjective visual reduction, vitreous hemorrhage, and vitreous pigment, as well as the patient's medical history and current symptoms 1.