Seeing Blue Spots When Eyes Are Closed: Is It Related to Floaters?

Seeing halos when closing the eyes?

I wonder if doctors have encountered a situation where, while lying down with eyes closed (usually more noticeable during the day), there are often blue light spots (a cluster) that flicker and continuously approach.
These disappear when the eyes are opened.
I'm not sure if this is related to floaters.

john, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/29

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Hello, this is a type of photopsia, which can also be considered a symptom of floaters.
It is advisable to seek medical examination.
Wishing you health and safety.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cai Wenyuan, Director of Ophthalmology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/10/29

More Info

Seeing blue spots or flashes of light when your eyes are closed can indeed be concerning, and it raises questions about whether this phenomenon is related to floaters or other ocular conditions. Based on the information provided, it seems that you are experiencing a type of visual phenomenon that may not be directly linked to floaters, but rather to other factors.

Floaters are typically described as small, shadowy shapes that drift across your field of vision, often caused by tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous, the clear gel-like substance that fills the eye. They are usually more noticeable against bright backgrounds and can be more prominent in individuals with myopia (nearsightedness) or those who have undergone cataract surgery. Floaters are generally harmless, although they can be bothersome.

The blue spots you are seeing when your eyes are closed could be attributed to a few different factors. One possibility is that you are experiencing a phenomenon known as "phosphene," which is the perception of light without light actually entering the eye. Phosphenes can occur when pressure is applied to the eyes or even spontaneously, and they can appear as flashes or spots of light, sometimes in various colors, including blue. This can happen when you are lying down and your eyes are closed, as the pressure from your eyelids may stimulate the retina.

Another possibility is that the blue spots are related to the way your brain processes visual information. When your eyes are closed, the brain may still be interpreting signals from the visual system, leading to the perception of light or color. This is particularly true if you are in a dimly lit environment, where the contrast between light and dark can enhance the visibility of these phenomena.

In your case, since you mentioned that the blue spots disappear when you open your eyes, it suggests that they may not be related to floaters, which would typically be visible regardless of whether your eyes are open or closed. Instead, it could be a transient visual phenomenon that is not uncommon and is often benign.

However, it is essential to consider other factors that could contribute to these visual disturbances. For instance, eye fatigue, prolonged screen time, or dry eyes can lead to various visual symptoms, including the perception of spots or flashes. If you have a history of eye conditions or if these symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult an eye care professional for a thorough examination.

In conclusion, while the blue spots you are experiencing when your eyes are closed may not be directly related to floaters, they could be attributed to phosphenes or other benign visual phenomena. If you have concerns about your eye health or if the symptoms continue, seeking advice from an eye care specialist is the best course of action. Regular eye examinations are crucial for maintaining eye health, especially if you have pre-existing conditions like myopia or dry eye syndrome.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Eye Floaters: When to Seek Help for Visual Disturbances

Hello, when there is a little light, I see a shadow flickering, and in the dark, I constantly see blue spots, even with my eyes closed, similar to what I used to see when I pressed my eyes as a child. However, the doctors say everything is normal after examination.

Dr. Wang Zhangji reply Ophthalmology
Vitreous opacities, if not associated with conditions such as retinal tears, can be considered a normal part of aging and typically do not require significant concern.

Understanding Blue Light Spots in Dark: Eye Health Insights

Hello, Doctor Gao: I have myopia of 1000 degrees and also experience floaters. After a dilated eye exam, my retina was found to be healthy. However, when I enter a dark room at night, I see many small blue light spots flashing in front of me, followed by a blue circular layer tha...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Amy: The small blue light may be a form of photopsia, which is a physiological phenomenon. The drifting branches are likely indicative of floaters.

Seeing Colors with Closed Eyes: Is It a Sign of Eye Problems?

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a phenomenon where many people can still see pink or blue thread-like or dot-like lights when they close their eyes at night. I used to experience this as well, but recently it has suddenly changed to where I can only see these visuals in ...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Seeing bright objects in front of you even with your eyes closed is likely an afterimage, which is a normal phenomenon. There is no need to be concerned. Wishing you peace and happiness.

Understanding Fixed Light Spots in Vision: Causes and Concerns

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 ...

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.