Why do we see a flash of light when we close our eyes?

Try it now, you close your eyes for a moment. What do you see? Most people will see a colorful, wavy hue of light every time they close their eyes or rub on them. Maybe a red, yellow, or green color that flickers and moves around in your line of sight, like a fireworks display. Actually, what makes us able to see a flash of light when we close our eyes?

Why can we see colorful flashes of light when we close our eyes

During this time you may have thought that the streaks of light that appear flickering when the eye is closed are the shadow residue of the outdoor light that you just saw before the vision darkens. In fact, that's not it.

The hue of the colorful flash you see is phosphene. Phospenes is a visual sensation that occurs when the eyes are resting or closing so that the vision becomes completely dark. Well, did you know that even when we close our eyes, the visual nervous system is still busy sending visual signals to the brain?

Interestingly, your eyes don't need light to stimulate your vision. These flashes of phosphene light dancing in front of the eye are thought to be caused by the electric charge generated by the retina and which is still attached.

Phospene can also appear as a result of everyday stimuli that put pressure on the eye (retina) such as intense sneezing, laughing, coughing, or when you stand up too fast. Physical pressure on the retina then stimulates the nerves of the eye to finally produce phosphenes. That's why rubbing or pressing on the eyeball when closing the eye can also produce the same flash pattern. But remember, don't do it too often especially with hard pressure on purpose because it can harm the eyes.

The activity of the electrical and mechanical signals that the retina receives can create sparks of color or patterns that can change randomly. The frequency, duration, and type of effects that occur are all influenced by which part of the neuron is stimulated at that time.

In addition, other physical factors such as low blood pressure or too little oxygen intake can increase the intensity of the flashes of light when you close your eyes.

What if I see a flash of light without closing my eyes?

If you see flashes of light or certain patterns in line of sight without closing your eyes, contact your eye doctor immediately. The reason is, this condition can indicate the retina is tensed or pulled. Even though it looks harmless and painless, if left untreated this condition can harm your vision.

Therefore, immediately consult a doctor if you experience this. The doctor will make a diagnosis to find out the exact cause of the complaint you are experiencing. After that, then the doctor will determine the appropriate treatment. Maintain the health of your eyes by being sensitive to any emerging conditions characterized by things you have never experienced before.