Eye Exams for Flashes: What to Expect During Your Visit

Introduction

Noticing sudden flashes of light in your vision—like sparkles, lightning streaks, or a quick camera flash—can be a little scary. These flashes, called photopsia, aren’t always serious, but sometimes they can signal a bigger problem with your retina. That’s why getting checked right away is so important.

In this post, we’ll walk you through what happens during an eye exam for flashes, the tests you might go through, and why early evaluation can help protect your sight.

Close-up of a human eye undergoing an examination, highlighting the detailed iris and the use of specialized equipment to check for issues related to flashes of light.

Why Do Eye Flashes Matter?

Flashes usually happen when the jelly-like fluid inside your eye (the vitreous) tugs or pulls on the retina. Sometimes this is just part of the normal aging process. But in other cases, it could mean something more serious, like a retinal tear or detachment.

The only way to know for sure is with a comprehensive eye exam.

When to See an Eye Doctor: Eye Exams for Flashes

You should call your eye doctor right away if you notice any of these:

• Sudden, new flashes of light

• A burst of new floaters in your vision

• A shadow or “curtain” blocking part of your sight

• Flashes in only one eye (not both)

• Blurry or lost vision along with the flashes

These can be signs of a retinal tear or detachment, which needs urgent attention to save your vision.

What to Expect During the Exam

Here’s what usually happens when you come in for a flashes evaluation:

1. Talking About Your Symptoms Your doctor will ask when the flashes started, whether they come and go, and if you’ve noticed floaters or vision changes. They’ll also ask about your health history, migraines, or past eye surgery.

2. Checking Your Vision A simple eye chart test (visual acuity) helps see if your central vision has been affected.

3. Pupil Dilation Eye drops will gently widen your pupils so the doctor can see the back of your eye more clearly. This step is key to spotting tears, bleeding, or detachment. Your vision may be blurry for a few hours afterward, so it’s best not to drive yourself.

4. Slit-Lamp Exam This microscope lets your doctor look at the front of your eye and the vitreous gel to check for inflammation, bleeding, or changes in the jelly inside your eye.

5. Dilated Retinal Exam Using special lenses or a head-mounted scope, the doctor carefully examines your retina—especially the edges, where tears are most likely to form.

6. Imaging Tests (if needed)

• Ocular Ultrasound – if the retina isn’t clearly visible due to bleeding or cataracts.

  
  

• OCT Scan – a detailed picture of the retina to check for swelling, small holes, or membranes.

  
  

• Fluorescein Angiography – if blood flow or inflammation is suspected, a dye test may be done to highlight the retinal vessels.

• 
  

After the Exam

What happens next depends on the results:

• Benign cause? You’ll get reassurance and follow-up instructions.

• Tear or detachment? Immediate treatment may be done (such as laser, freezing therapy, or surgery).

• Need a retina specialist? You’ll be referred right away if extra care is needed.

Your doctor will also explain what to watch for at home and when to come back urgently.

How Long Will It Take?

Most exams last about 60–90 minutes. The tests themselves aren’t painful, though you may have some blurry vision and light sensitivity afterward.

Final Thoughts

Flashes of light in your vision aren’t something to brush off. While sometimes harmless, they can also be a warning sign of something serious. The good news is—when caught early, many of these problems can be treated successfully.

So if you or someone you love starts noticing flashes, don’t wait. Schedule an eye exam right away. Protecting your vision today can make all the difference tomorrow.

South Bay Retina: Caring for Your Eyes, Protecting Your Vision

At South Bay Retina, we specialize in conditions that cause flashes, including retinal tears and detachments. Dr. Keshav Narain and our team use advanced technology and a personal, patient-first approach to give you the best possible care.

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO HERE:

LISTEN TO OUR PODCAST EPISODE HERE: