Fixed Light Spots in Vision: Causes and Concerns - Ophthalmology

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Seeing flashes or spots of light when blinking?


Hello, doctor.
I have high myopia and floaters.
Today, when I was outside, I noticed that when I blinked, I saw one or two fixed circular light spots in my right eye.
Initially, I thought it was a visual illusion caused by the bright sun, but when I returned indoors, I still saw them.
The light spots appeared bluish-purple in sunlight and white indoors, and they only appear when I close my eyes and then open them; they do not appear when my eyes are open.
Could this be related to issues with the retina or the macula? Thank you.

S, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/18

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology


This should not be an issue related to the retina or macula.
If it were, there would likely be scotomas in the visual field that do not disappear.
This is for your reference.

Reply Date: 2016/07/18

More Info


The presence of fixed light spots in your vision, especially in the context of high myopia and floaters, can be concerning and warrants careful consideration. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing a phenomenon known as "photopsia," which refers to the perception of flashes or spots of light in the visual field. This can occur for various reasons, and understanding the underlying causes is crucial for addressing your concerns.

In your case, the fact that these light spots appear when you blink and are more pronounced in bright sunlight suggests that they may be related to the way your eyes are processing light. High myopia can lead to structural changes in the eye, including thinning of the retina and changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye. These changes can sometimes cause light to scatter in unusual ways, leading to the perception of fixed light spots.

One possible explanation for the blue-purple light spots you see outdoors and the white spots indoors could be related to the way your eyes adapt to different lighting conditions. Bright sunlight can cause the pupils to constrict, which may enhance the visibility of any irregularities in the retina or vitreous. Conversely, in dimmer light, your pupils dilate, which can change the way light enters your eye and may affect your perception of these spots.

Additionally, the fact that you only notice these spots when you blink and not when your eyes are open could indicate that they are related to the mechanics of your eyelids or the surface of your eye. When you blink, the eyelids may create a slight change in pressure or position that alters the way light is refracted or focused on the retina.

While these explanations may provide some insight, it is essential to consider more serious underlying conditions. Fixed light spots can sometimes be associated with retinal issues, such as retinal tears or detachments, especially in individuals with high myopia. These conditions can lead to more severe vision problems if not addressed promptly. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely and seek further evaluation from an eye care professional.

In terms of management, if you notice any changes in your vision, such as an increase in the number of light spots, a change in the appearance of floaters, or any new symptoms like flashes of light or shadowy areas in your vision, you should seek immediate medical attention. An eye specialist can perform a comprehensive examination, including a dilated fundus exam, to assess the health of your retina and vitreous.

In conclusion, while the fixed light spots you are experiencing may be related to your high myopia and the way your eyes process light, it is essential to rule out any serious conditions. Regular eye examinations and monitoring your symptoms will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to an eye care professional for a thorough evaluation. Your vision is vital, and staying proactive about your eye health is the best approach.

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