August 28, 2026
Seeing green flashes, spots, or bursts of light in the middle of your vision can be surprising, especially if you aren't sure what's causing them. While some visual disturbances may be temporary and harmless, new flashes can sometimes point to an issue that needs prompt attention.
Knowing what may be causing these visual changes can help you understand when it's time to have your eyes checked.
What Causes Green Spots or Flashes in Your Vision?
When you see a flash of light even though there isn't an actual source of light in front of you, the sensation is often caused by how your eye or brain is processing visual signals. Flashes can happen when the vitreous, the gel-like substance inside your eye, pulls on the retina. Your brain can interpret this stimulation as a flash or spot of light, which may appear white, yellow, green, or another color.
The specific appearance of the flash can vary from person to person. That's why it's important to pay attention to when the flashes occur, whether they affect one or both eyes, and whether you notice other changes in your vision.
Common Causes of Green Flashes and Spots in Your Vision
There are several possible reasons you may notice green flashes or spots, ranging from temporary visual disturbances to conditions that need medical attention.
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Vitreous changes: As you age, the vitreous gel inside your eye can change and pull away from the retina. This is called posterior vitreous detachment, or PVD. It can cause new flashes and floaters, particularly in your peripheral vision.
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Retinal tear or detachment: When the vitreous pulls on the retina, it can sometimes cause a retinal tear. A tear can progress to retinal detachment, which can threaten your vision if it isn't treated quickly. New flashes accompanied by many new floaters, a shadow, or a curtain-like area over your vision are important warning signs.
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Migraine with aura: A migraine can cause temporary visual symptoms, including flashing or shimmering lights, bright spots, zigzag patterns, or blind spots. These symptoms often begin near the center of your vision and spread outward, and they typically affect both eyes. A migraine aura can also happen without a headache.
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Eye injury or trauma: A blow to the eye or head can cause flashes and other changes in your vision. Because an injury can also increase the risk of retinal problems, it's important to have new visual symptoms checked by an eye care professional.
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Other eye or vision conditions: Flashes can occur alongside other eye problems, including inflammation, bleeding inside the eye, or other changes affecting the retina or vitreous. An eye exam can help determine what's causing the symptoms and whether treatment is needed.
When Should You See an Eye Doctor for Green Flashes?
If you've suddenly started seeing new flashes or spots, it's a good idea to have your eyes evaluated, even if the symptoms aren't painful. New flashes can sometimes be associated with a retinal tear or detachment, and a dilated eye exam can help your doctor look for these problems.
Seek prompt medical attention if you notice:
- A sudden increase in flashes
- A sudden increase in floaters
- A dark shadow or curtain over part of your vision
- New blurry or reduced vision
- A sudden change in your peripheral or central vision
- Flashes that begin after an eye or head injury
These symptoms can be signs of a retinal tear or retinal detachment, which can cause permanent vision loss without prompt treatment.
Take New Vision Changes Seriously
Seeing an occasional spot or flash doesn't always mean there's a serious problem, but new or changing flashes shouldn't be ignored. Since retinal problems can sometimes develop without pain, having your eyes examined is the best way to find out what's causing the changes in your vision.
At The Eye Care Center, our team provides comprehensive eye care and emergency eye care for patients throughout the Finger Lakes and surrounding Rochester area. With convenient locations in Canandaigua, Geneva, and Macedon, we're here to help you protect your vision and understand changes in your eye health.
If you're experiencing new green flashes or other changes in your vision, contact us today to schedule an eye appointment.
