Eye Discomfort: Dry Eyes, Pain, and Flashing Lights

Eye strain, orbital pain, and flashes of floaters?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you some questions:
1.
My eyes are very easily fatigued, and I feel dryness and a foreign body sensation when looking at my phone or computer.
Recently, it feels like something is stuck in my left eye when I move it, and I also feel a sensation of something being stuck in my throat, which is connected to my eyes.
However, the ophthalmological examination showed no foreign body.
Could this be a symptom of dry eye? Is there a connection between the throat feeling stuck and the eyes?
2.
Additionally, I have been experiencing pain around my eye sockets, with a feeling of pressure in my brow bone.
The pain becomes more pronounced when I lower my head, and sometimes I feel pressure when sleeping on my side.
3.
I have a history of floaters and sometimes see small light spots and flashes that resemble tadpoles moving.
I previously had a dilated eye exam that indicated my floaters are pulling on the retina.
How can I differentiate which types of flashes require a doctor's visit? If the pulling leads to a retinal tear, will it quickly result in a retinal detachment? I am hesitant to frequently visit the ophthalmologist, but I am afraid of misjudging and delaying treatment, which could lead to detachment.
Thank you for your patience in reading this.
My eyes have been very uncomfortable lately, and I would greatly appreciate your response.
Thank you!

sabrina, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/20

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology

Hello, there is a possibility of dry eye syndrome and eye fatigue.
If symptoms change, further examination is necessary; otherwise, follow-up should be done once a year.

Reply Date: 2016/03/20

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your detailed questions regarding your eye discomfort. Let's break down your concerns one by one.

1. Dry Eyes and Foreign Body Sensation: The symptoms you describe, such as dryness, a feeling of something being stuck in your eye, and discomfort when using screens, are indeed indicative of dry eye syndrome. This condition occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. The sensation of something being stuck can also be related to the presence of debris or mucus in the eye, which can happen with dry eyes. It’s worth noting that dry eyes can lead to discomfort in the throat area, particularly if you are experiencing allergies or sinus issues, as these can create a sensation of post-nasal drip or irritation in the throat.

2. Eye Socket Pain and Pressure: The pain and pressure you feel around your eyebrow and eye socket could be related to several factors, including sinusitis, tension headaches, or even eye strain. If you find that the pain worsens when you lean forward or lie down, it may be related to sinus pressure. It’s essential to consider whether you have any accompanying symptoms, such as nasal congestion or headaches, which could indicate a sinus issue. If the pain persists, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions.

3. Flashing Lights and Floaters: Your experience with floaters and flashing lights, especially given your history of myopia and previous retinal issues, is something that should be monitored closely. Floaters are common and often benign, but they can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, such as retinal tears or detachments, especially if they are accompanied by flashes of light. The key signs that warrant immediate medical attention include a sudden increase in the number of floaters, the appearance of new flashes of light, or a shadow or curtain effect in your vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek an eye care professional promptly.

Regarding your concern about retinal detachment, it is indeed possible for a retinal tear to lead to detachment, but this process can vary significantly from person to person. Not all retinal tears result in detachment, and many can be treated effectively if caught early. Regular eye examinations, especially given your history of myopia and floaters, are essential for monitoring your eye health.

In summary, your symptoms suggest a combination of dry eye syndrome, potential sinus-related issues, and the need for careful monitoring of your retinal health. It is crucial to maintain regular check-ups with your eye care provider, especially if you notice any changes in your symptoms. They can provide you with tailored advice and treatment options, such as lubricating eye drops for dryness, addressing any sinus issues, and monitoring your retinal health closely. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. Your eye health is important, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution.

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