What Causes Bright Spots And White Flashes In Vision?

Posted on Wed, 4 Jun 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 4 Jun 2014 Answered on

Wed, 25 Jun 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : My eyes flash several times a day. I get bright spots in my vision that sometimes last a second or two and other times reappear for a minute or two and change from a bright small spot to a white flash in the same size and shape when I blink. Any idea what this is? This has been happening for about four years now.

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Retinal or vitreous disease suspected.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Appearance of bright spots and white flashes are suggestive of retinal disease or degeneration. Dark spots appear in front of eye in cases of vitreous diseases or degeneration.

You have mentioned that you have seen many ophthalmologists and retinal specialist but no disease could be found out. However as the signs could be too subtle in the initial stage, it would be worthwhile to follow up with the retina specialist or take a second opinion from another retinal specialist. A through fundus examination and vision check is required. There could be visual defects which are detected after examination of the visual field.

You can also discuss about neurologist referral subsequently with your treating doctor, if retina specialist follow up is not fruitful.

If you have more queries, I will be glad to answer.
Dr Shailja P Wahal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Shailja Puri (6 hours later)

can vitreous traction explain bright spots that change to white flashes when blinking that appear for a second or two for a period of one to two minutes every time i blink? I am very nearsighted and have floaters as well which are different. i have also had migraine with aura before but that is different than this.

Answered by Dr. Shailja Puri (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Vitreous traction and migraine can cause flashes.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome again,

Vitreous traction can lead to flashes of light.
Nearsightedness is associated with floaters and that is due to degeneration of vitreus.
An increase in number of floaters can be associated with vitreous traction.
Migraine is associated with aura and aura can be accompanied by flashes of light.
If ophthalmic examination does not reveal anything, consultation with neurologist will help to find the exact cause of your symptoms.

Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj