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White flashes

Sent to Health Experts August 22 07:12 PM

I have what seem to be white flashes in my right eye. I happens infrequently and started about a week ago. Is this something to be concerned about?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
August 23 3:36 AM (8 hours and 23 minutes and 55 seconds later)
         
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You need to get yourself examined by an ophthalmologist to rule out potential retinal detachment
"Flashes and flickers occur from inappropriate activation of the retinal photoreceptors or the vision-related cerebral cortex.

The major cause of inappropriate photoreceptor activation is tugging by an aging vitreous. In late middle age, the vitreous normally detaches from the retina. As it does, it may tear a hole in the retina. If liquid vitreous seeps under the hole, the retina may detach and destroy vision. This causes brief white flashes in the peripheral field. Blunt trauma to the head or eyes can also set this off ("seeing stars")."
Regards
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