What symptom suggests retinal detachment?

• A. Dizziness.
• B. Hearing loss.
• C. Flashes of light.
• D. Coughing.

Answer: (C)

Flashes of light in the vision signal retinal detachment. This occurs when the vitreous gel inside the eye tugs on the retina, triggering brief, spark-like light phenomena called photopsia—often described as lightning or stars, usually in the peripheral area of one eye. It’s common for these flashes to appear suddenly and may be accompanied by a noticeable increase in floaters, and later by a curtain-like loss of vision as the retina detaches. Because a detachment can progress quickly and threaten sight, it’s an urgent ophthalmology concern.

Dizziness doesn’t typically point to retinal issues; it tends to relate to balance or circulation problems. Hearing loss involves the ear or auditory pathways, not the retina. Coughing is a respiratory action and isn’t linked to retinal conditions.