What causes lightning streaks in eye?

Answer 1

The retina is the layer of tissue in the eye responsible for turning light into the images we see. Normally light energy or particles "hits" this inside layer of the eye and you perceive light. Now, if the retina is physically disturbed it will also cause these nerve cells to fire. Being poked in the eye may cause a flash of colored light to be perceived. Most people who see lightning like streaks of light for no apparent reason are seeing the retina react to an internal process called vitreous detachment or traction, this is where the gel inside the eye pulls on the retina as it shrinks over time as we age, causing the apparent sparks or lightning-like flashes of light. It is important to note that in rare cases the retina itself is being torn by this traction warning you that there now is a hole in the retina or worse a retinal detachment (where the retina is pulled away from the inside of the eye.) Even though rare, this is a serious condition and needs to be investigated by a qualified optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Answer 2

Lightning streaks in the eye, also known as vitreous floaters, are caused by tiny protein clumps or strands that form in the gel-like vitreous humor inside the eye. As we age, the vitreous humor can shrink and pull away from the retina, creating string-like shapes that drift in the field of vision. However, sudden onset of new floaters or flashes of light in the eye could be a sign of a more serious condition and should be evaluated by an eye specialist.