Why am i seeing flashes of light in the corner of my eye?

While I can’t give medical advice, I can explain some possible reasons why you might be seeing flashes of light in the corner of your eye. This phenomenon is called photopsia, and it can have a variety of causes. Here are some of the most common:

• Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): This is the most frequent cause of flashes of light, especially in people over 50. The vitreous is a gel-like substance that fills the inside of your eye. As we age, the vitreous can detach from the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye. This detachment can tug on the retina, causing flashes of light. PVD is usually harmless, but sometimes it can be accompanied by floaters (cobweb-like shapes) or a sudden decrease in vision.

• Migraine: Flashes of light, often accompanied by zig-zag lines, can be an aura symptom that precedes a migraine headache.

• Retinal Tear: In some cases, flashes of light can indicate a more serious condition like a retinal tear. This occurs when a small tear develops in the retina. While not immediately sight-threatening, a retinal tear can lead to retinal detachment if left untreated. Retinal detachment can cause permanent vision loss.

Here are some additional factors to consider:

• Frequency and Duration: Occasional flashes are less concerning than frequent or persistent ones.
• Accompanying Symptoms: Pay attention to any other visual disturbances like floaters, blurred vision, or sudden vision loss.
• Age: PVD is more common with age, while retinal tears can occur at any age.

When to See a Doctor:

If you experience any of the following, it’s crucial to see an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) as soon as possible:

• Sudden onset of flashes of light, especially accompanied by a lot of floaters or blurred vision.
• Flashes that worsen or become more frequent.
• Any رؤية (ru’yah), the Arabic word for vision, loss or sudden decrease in vision, even if it’s just in one eye.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and protect your vision.

Here are some resources that you might find helpful:

• National Eye Institute – Flashes of Light and Floaters: [invalid URL removed]
• American Academy of Ophthalmology – Flashes and Floaters: [invalid URL removed]

Remember, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you’re concerned about your eye health, please schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.