Seeing Light Rings When Pressing the Eyebrow: Is It Normal?

Pressing on the Yuyao (the area between the eyebrows) will cause a visual phenomenon known as a "phosphene."

Hello, doctor.
Due to my work, I look at the computer every day and I have floaters.
Today, when I gently pressed the area near the medial canthus (the inner corner of the eye) close to the eyeball, my fingertip slightly touched the eyeball.
When I pressed on my left eye, a bright halo appeared in the lower left area, and when I pressed on my right eye, a similar effect occurred in the lower right area, but it was more pronounced on the left side (I had never pressed there before, and this time I accidentally pressed a bit lower).
Is this situation normal, or could there be an eye condition? Thank you.

Ms. Huang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/12

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Basically, as long as you do not apply pressure to the eyeball, there should not be any significant issues.
Experiencing flashes of light when pressing on the eyeball is possible, and it is generally not recommended to apply pressure to the eyeball during massage.

Reply Date: 2016/04/12

More Info

Seeing light rings or flashes when pressing on the area around the eyes, such as the eyebrow, can be a concerning experience, especially for someone who is already aware of conditions like floaters. However, it’s important to understand the underlying mechanisms and whether this phenomenon is a cause for concern.

When you apply pressure to the area around your eyes, particularly near the eyebrows or the bridge of the nose, you may stimulate the optic nerve or the retina indirectly. This can lead to visual sensations such as seeing light rings or flashes. This phenomenon is often referred to as "phosphene," which is a term used to describe the perception of light without light actually entering the eye. Phosphenes can occur due to mechanical stimulation of the retina or the optic nerve, and they are generally harmless if they occur infrequently and resolve quickly.

In your case, since you mentioned that you have floaters and that you work extensively on a computer, it’s possible that your eyes are already under some strain. Floaters are common in individuals with high myopia (nearsightedness) and can be more noticeable when the eyes are tired or strained. The appearance of light rings when pressing on the eyebrow may not necessarily indicate a serious issue, especially if it is a transient phenomenon that resolves once the pressure is released.

However, it is crucial to differentiate between normal occurrences and symptoms that may indicate a more serious condition. If you experience persistent light rings, flashes, or any other visual disturbances that do not resolve quickly, it is advisable to seek a comprehensive eye examination from an ophthalmologist. They can assess the health of your retina and optic nerve, especially given your history of floaters and high myopia, which can predispose you to retinal issues.

Additionally, since you spend a lot of time in front of a computer, you may be experiencing digital eye strain, which can lead to symptoms such as eye fatigue, dryness, and discomfort. It’s essential to take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This practice can help alleviate some of the strain on your eyes.

In summary, seeing light rings when pressing on the eyebrow is generally not a cause for alarm, particularly if it is a fleeting sensation. However, due to your existing eye conditions and the nature of your work, it is prudent to monitor your symptoms and consult with an eye care professional if you have any concerns or if the symptoms persist. Regular eye check-ups are essential for maintaining eye health, especially for individuals with high myopia and other visual disturbances.

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