Light enters the eye through the pupil, and the lens focuses it onto the retina at the back of the eyeball. There, photoreceptor cells convert light into electrical signals, which transmit to the brain via the optic nerve.

Any damage to a part of this system can cause vision problems. The risk of visual disturbances also increases with age due to natural eye changes and the risk of diseases like diabetes, a condition that can cause eye damage.

The phenomenon of seeing yellow spots in front of the eyes can stem from various causes.

Looking at strong light

One common reason for seeing yellow spots is looking directly at an intense light source, such as the sun, automobile headlights, or a camera flash. Strong light can stimulate retinal photoreceptor cells, creating "afterimages" that cause individuals to see yellow spots or areas in their vision.

This phenomenon usually lasts only a few seconds to a few minutes, then disappears on its own and causes no eye damage if not repeated frequently.

Exposure to strong light, like the sun, can cause temporary colored spots in front of the eyes. *Image created by AI*.

Rubbing or applying pressure to the eyes

Rubbing eyes too hard or accidentally applying pressure to the eyeball can also cause bright or colored spots to appear in front of the eyes. This occurs because the applied force stimulates the retina, causing the brain to register abnormal visual signals even when no actual light enters the eye. Symptoms usually disappear quickly after the pressure on the eye stops.

Migraine with aura

Some people who suffer from migraine with aura may see yellow spots, flashes of light, zig-zag lines, or blurred areas in their vision before a headache begins. These visual changes typically last from 5 to 60 minutes and then disappear. In some cases, only the aura appears without an accompanying headache.

Retinal detachment or tear

Yellow spots appearing suddenly, accompanied by flashes of light, numerous floating black spots (floaters), or a sensation of a curtain covering a part of the visual field, can be signs of a retinal tear or detachment. This is an ophthalmological emergency. Without prompt treatment, patients risk permanent vision loss.

Diabetic retinopathy

In individuals with diabetes, prolonged high blood sugar can damage the small blood vessels supplying the retina. As the condition progresses, patients may see colored spots, dark spots, or experience gradually blurred vision. Good blood sugar control and regular eye exams are important measures to reduce the risk of this complication.

Head injury or medication side effects

Head or eye trauma can sometimes cause patients to see abnormal colored spots in their vision. Some medications may cause visual disturbances as a side effect, leading some individuals to see colored spots or experience changes in color perception. If symptoms appear after starting a new medication, patients should consult their doctor rather than stopping the drug on their own.

Seeing transient yellow spots after looking at strong light or rubbing the eyes is usually not concerning. However, if symptoms persist, recur frequently, or appear with vision loss, continuous flashes of light, numerous floating black spots, severe eye pain, or after a head injury, individuals should visit a medical facility for an examination and diagnosis.

Bao Bao (compiled)