I am an expert in the field of ophthalmology, and I'm here to help you understand why you might be seeing flashes of light when your eyes are closed. There are several reasons why this phenomenon can occur, and it's important to consider various factors to determine the cause.

Firstly, the experience of seeing light flashes with closed eyes is known as phosphenes. Phosphenes can be caused by a variety of stimuli, including physical pressure on the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. When you apply pressure to your eye, it can stimulate the photoreceptor cells in the retina, leading to the perception of light even in the absence of actual light entering the eye. This is why you might see flashes of light when you gently push on your closed eyelids.

Another potential cause of phosphenes is retinal tension. The retina can be subject to tension or pulling forces due to various reasons, such as aging, inflammation, or certain eye conditions. When the retina is under tension, it can lead to the perception of light flashes. This is similar to how a stretched canvas might create creases or folds that affect the way light is perceived.

It's also worth noting that certain eye conditions can lead to the experience of seeing light flashes. For instance, if you have a retinal tear or detachment, you might notice sudden, bright flashes of light. This is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention, as it can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly.

Furthermore, migraine is another condition that can cause visual disturbances, including flashes of light. These are often described as seeing zigzag lines, spots, or shimmering lights, and they can precede a migraine headache. Migraine-associated visual disturbances are usually temporary and resolve on their own.

In some cases, seeing light flashes can be a symptom of an ocular migraine, which is a type of migraine that affects only one eye and can cause temporary vision loss or visual disturbances without the headache.

Lastly, it's important to consider the impact of stress and fatigue on the perception of light flashes. When you are stressed or tired, your body's sensory perceptions can be heightened, and you might be more prone to noticing sensations like phosphenes.

In conclusion, while seeing flashes of light with closed eyes can be a normal phenomenon, it's essential to monitor the frequency and intensity of these flashes. If they occur frequently, are accompanied by other symptoms, or if you have concerns about your eye health, it's crucial to consult with an eye care professional. They can perform a comprehensive eye examination to rule out any serious conditions and provide appropriate guidance and treatment if necessary.

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The physical pressure being put on the retina stimulates it and generates phosphenes and light. You can test this by closing your eyes and gently pushing on your eye. ... Tension or pulling on the retina, like that which happens when the eye is experiencing retinal tension, a tear or detachment can cause flashes.Jun 24, 2015read more >>