Experiencing Light Flashes While Jogging at Night: What to Know

Q: Experiencing Light Flashes While Jogging at Night: What to Know

Hello, Mr. <br>Shi： This phenomenon should still be related to issues with the retina or optic nerve; however, it is not possible to draw a conclusion from the description provided. <br>I recommend that you visit a major hospital's ophthalmology or neuro-ophthalmology department

During an evening jog, I experienced visual flashes?

Hello, Doctor.
I have a question regarding my eyes.
I have high myopia, with both eyes at -6.50 diopters and astigmatism ranging from -1.25 to -2.00.
I work on a computer and spend long hours staring at the screen, and I wear so-called blue light-blocking glasses.
I have noticed that while jogging in the evening, the park lights are somewhat dim, and on a few occasions (not every time), I experience a bright spot in my vision.
It resembles the visual persistence we see when we stare at a light for too long and then close our eyes, but it is clearly a large, uniform area rather than the shape of the light, and it tends to be a yellowish-white color.
Typically, it appears as a hollow circle that gradually enlarges from the lower left corner.
I have not yet tested whether the entire circle will illuminate because it is not located in my central field of vision, making it difficult to determine if I can see objects in that area.
However, if I slow my jogging pace to a walk, the bright spot gradually fades away.
Therefore, I usually switch to walking once I notice this condition.
The bright spot is visible whether my eyes are open or closed, and it is particularly clear when my eyes are closed.
Since I always jog at the park in the evening, this phenomenon only occurs during this specific time (evening + jogging) and does not happen at other times.
Could you please advise what might be causing this? If I need to visit an ophthalmologist, how should I describe this phenomenon? Thank you, Doctor.

Shiti, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/27

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Mr.
Shi: This phenomenon should still be related to issues with the retina or optic nerve; however, it is not possible to draw a conclusion from the description provided.
I recommend that you visit a major hospital's ophthalmology or neuro-ophthalmology department for an examination.
Based on your description, you can refer to the following: Taiwan E-Hospital Puzi Hospital Ophthalmology: Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday afternoon from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses can only serve as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2016/06/27

More Info

Experiencing light flashes while jogging at night can be concerning, especially for someone with high myopia and a history of eye issues. Your description of seeing a bright, circular light that appears to grow in size, particularly in low-light conditions, raises several important considerations regarding your eye health.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that light flashes or visual disturbances can be attributed to various factors, particularly in individuals with high myopia. High myopia is associated with changes in the structure of the eye, including elongation of the eyeball and thinning of the retina, which can increase the risk of retinal detachment and other complications. The phenomenon you describe, where you see a bright area that resembles a visual afterimage, may be related to the way your retina is responding to changes in light intensity and movement.

When you jog in low-light conditions, your eyes are constantly adjusting to the varying light levels, especially as you move from darker areas to those illuminated by streetlights. This adjustment can sometimes cause temporary visual disturbances, such as the bright spots you are experiencing. These disturbances may be exacerbated by the fatigue of your eyes from prolonged screen time, especially if you are not taking regular breaks or using proper lighting.

The fact that the bright spot diminishes when you slow down to a walk suggests that it may be related to the rapid movement and the way your eyes are processing visual information in a dynamic environment. When you are jogging, your eyes are likely trying to focus on multiple light sources and adjusting to the motion, which can lead to temporary visual effects.

Given your history of high myopia and the presence of visual disturbances, it is advisable to consult with an eye care professional. When you visit the eye doctor, you should describe your symptoms in detail, including:
1. The specific nature of the light flashes (e.g., color, shape, duration).

2. The circumstances under which they occur (e.g., during jogging in low light).

3. Any other symptoms you may have experienced, such as changes in vision, eye pain, or discomfort.

4. Your history of high myopia and any other eye conditions, such as floaters or previous eye examinations.

Your eye doctor may perform a comprehensive eye examination, including a dilated fundus exam, to assess the health of your retina and rule out any serious conditions such as retinal tears or detachments. They may also evaluate your visual acuity and overall eye health to determine if any further action is necessary.

In conclusion, while experiencing light flashes during jogging at night can be related to normal visual adjustments, it is crucial to take these symptoms seriously, especially given your background of high myopia. Regular eye check-ups and prompt attention to any new visual disturbances are essential for maintaining eye health and preventing potential complications.

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