Flashing Lights with Floaters: Is It Normal?

Q: Flashing Lights with Floaters: Is It Normal?

Hello Mr. <br>Wang： If the retinal examination is normal, there is no need to worry. <br>The phenomenon of flashes can sometimes be caused by the vitreous pulling on the retina; if it hasn't caused any retinal damage, you can continue to observe it. <br>In Taiwan, the ophthalmolo

The issue of flashes associated with floaters?

Hello Dr.
Gao: I have a situation similar to the following regarding my floaters.
I started experiencing floaters in September, and recently when I look at things, it feels like they are flickering, similar to when a fluorescent light is about to burn out.
This sensation is particularly noticeable in the morning right after I wake up and when I suddenly turn on the light in a dim room.
May I ask what is happening? (This text is a question from a user in a historical archive.) You responded that this is a normal phenomenon of floaters.
My condition is similar to that of this user; I noticed this phenomenon after developing floaters five and a half years ago.
Initially, it occurred when I got up at night and turned on the desk lamp (from dark to bright), and I noticed a flicker in the corner of my eye, which disappeared when I turned off the light.
Later, I also noticed this upon waking up, but usually only after a nap, although it is not very pronounced and often requires covering one eye to feel it.
However, I do not experience this upon waking in the morning.
More noticeably, after resting my eyes for several seconds with them closed, I see flickering when I open them (at this time, the external light is bright).
I have observed that this flickering seems more pronounced when I am more fatigued (in terms of brightness and amplitude).
Additionally, I have noticed that if I rest a bit, it sometimes alleviates the sensation, making it harder to feel during the day (even if I intentionally turn on the daylight lamp to simulate it, it remains the same).
I often feel it after 8 PM.
The flickering sensation is lighter on one side of my forehead, and when it is more intense, it also involves the corner of the eye on the same side as my ear, but it lasts at most one or two seconds before disappearing, just a moment.
(To observe it closely, I need to cover one eye to feel a possibly very faint continuation of the flicker.) The symptoms I described are my own observations, but I have seen that the flickering symptoms associated with floaters mostly resemble the traditional symptoms reported by users, which is flickering in the dark, yet my situation and that of this user seem somewhat different.
Besides the aforementioned situations, I rarely see flickering in the dark.
Therefore, based on your response to the user regarding the flickering when "suddenly turning on the light in a dim room," is my condition considered normal? My past routine check-up results have all been normal, with no changes in the number of floaters or visual acuity.
I have also asked doctors at both large hospitals and small clinics about this, and they said this situation is normal, but sometimes I still feel uneasy, so I wanted to ask you again.
Thank you, Dr.
Gao, for clarifying my doubts.

Mr. Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/02

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Mr.
Wang: If the retinal examination is normal, there is no need to worry.
The phenomenon of flashes can sometimes be caused by the vitreous pulling on the retina; if it hasn't caused any retinal damage, you can continue to observe it.
In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses are for reference only; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2016/07/02

More Info

Flashing lights and floaters in the visual field can be concerning symptoms for many individuals, especially those who have experienced floaters, or "myodesopsia," for an extended period. Your description of experiencing flashes of light, particularly in low-light conditions or upon waking, is indeed a common phenomenon associated with floaters. However, it is essential to understand the underlying mechanisms and when to seek further evaluation.

Floaters are typically caused by changes in the vitreous humor, the gel-like substance that fills the eye. As we age, the vitreous can become more liquid and may pull away from the retina, leading to the perception of floaters. These floaters can appear as small dots, lines, or cobweb-like structures in the visual field. The flashes of light you describe, particularly when transitioning from dark to light environments, may be due to the vitreous tugging on the retina, which can stimulate the photoreceptors and create the sensation of light.

Your experience of flashes occurring when you suddenly turn on a light or after resting your eyes is not uncommon. This phenomenon can be more pronounced when the eyes are tired or strained, as you noted. The flashes are often brief and transient, typically lasting only a second or two, which aligns with your observations.
While these symptoms can be benign, it is crucial to monitor them closely. The presence of new or sudden flashes of light, especially if accompanied by a significant increase in floaters, a shadow or curtain effect in your vision, or any loss of vision, warrants immediate evaluation by an eye care professional. These could be signs of more serious conditions, such as retinal tears or detachments, which require prompt intervention.

In your case, since you have had regular eye examinations and the results have been normal, it is reassuring. The fact that multiple healthcare providers have assessed your symptoms and deemed them normal is a positive sign. However, if your symptoms change or worsen, it is always wise to seek further evaluation.

In summary, while your experiences with flashes of light and floaters can be typical and benign, staying vigilant about any changes in your vision is essential. Regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist can help ensure that your eye health remains stable. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms evolve, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further assessment. Your peace of mind is important, and understanding your symptoms is a crucial part of maintaining your overall eye health.

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