Eye Issues and Headaches: When to Seek Medical Help

Eye problems can sometimes be accompanied by headaches?

During regular activities such as reading or using the computer, I do not experience any flashes.
However, I notice flashes when I exert myself during bowel movements or while doing deep squats.
A year ago, I experienced many small, flickering lights, but now it appears as if I am seeing bright lights that blink like a wink (which used to occur occasionally a year ago, but now happens daily).
Is this worsening? My blood pressure is generally on the lower side; could this have an impact? Which medical specialty should I consult for examination?

Li, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/24

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, regarding your inquiry, it is recommended to seek assistance from an ophthalmologist for evaluation.
Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/03/24

More Info

When experiencing eye issues and headaches, particularly symptoms such as flashes of light or visual disturbances, it is crucial to understand the potential underlying causes and when to seek medical help. The symptoms you've described—flashes of light occurring during physical exertion or deep squats—can be indicative of several conditions, some of which may require prompt medical attention.

Flashes of light in the vision, known as photopsia, can occur for various reasons. One common cause is the vitreous gel in the eye pulling away from the retina, which can happen as we age. This condition, known as posterior vitreous detachment, is generally benign but can sometimes lead to more serious issues, such as retinal tears or detachments. The fact that you mentioned these flashes have become more frequent and now occur daily is concerning and warrants further investigation.

Additionally, the presence of low blood pressure can influence your overall health and may contribute to symptoms like dizziness or lightheadedness, especially during physical activity. However, low blood pressure alone is less likely to be the direct cause of visual disturbances unless it leads to inadequate blood flow to the eyes or brain.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to consult an ophthalmologist, a medical doctor specializing in eye and vision care. They can perform a comprehensive eye examination, which may include a dilated fundus examination to assess the retina and vitreous for any abnormalities. If necessary, they may also refer you to a neurologist if there are concerns about neurological causes for your headaches or visual symptoms.

In addition to seeking medical advice, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any sudden changes in vision, such as a significant increase in the number of flashes, the appearance of new floaters, or a shadow or curtain effect in your vision, you should seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency.

In summary, while occasional flashes of light can be benign, the increase in frequency and the nature of your symptoms suggest that it is time to seek professional evaluation. An ophthalmologist will be able to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment or management strategies. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to preserving your vision and overall eye health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Headaches, Dizziness, and Vision Issues: When to Seek Help

Doctor, I would like to ask about my condition. A few months ago, I experienced severe headaches for the first time, and I had difficulty focusing my vision while using the computer screen. After taking painkillers and getting some sleep, I felt better the next day. However, a fe...

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
The symptoms resemble those of a visual aura migraine. The subsequent symptoms are less specific and may not necessarily indicate a problem. For the headache component, it would be advisable to consult a neurologist.

Understanding Occasional Visual Disturbances: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello Dr. Lin, recently I've been experiencing a sensation in my left eye near the outer corner that feels like seeing stars (this seems to occur more often when sitting, standing up, or sitting cross-legged). It happens intermittently, sometimes several times a day, and oth...

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine
Hello: The discomfort in your left eye may require consideration of a retinal issue. However, since you have already consulted an ophthalmologist without any specific findings, the next step would be to consider a possible neurological problem. You have also seen a neurologist, a...

Understanding Headaches Accompanied by Eye Pain: Causes and Concerns

Hello Doctor: I am 20 years old. A week ago, I noticed that I frequently have headaches on the left side of my head, often accompanied by pain in my left eye and the left side of my occiput. This has persisted until now. I had previously sought medical attention for headaches a y...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
It is recommended to first see an ophthalmologist to measure intraocular pressure to assess the possibility of glaucoma. If the headache persists after the examination, please schedule an appointment with a neurologist for a physical examination.

Understanding Deep Eye Pain: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help

Hello, Doctor Gao. I occasionally experience headaches, a condition that has persisted for over ten years. However, I have not sought medical attention frequently; it may occur two to three times a month or just once every two to three months. Sometimes, the pain can be so severe...

Dr. Gao Chunde reply Neurology
Your headache is a migraine, not trigeminal neuralgia. You should undergo a thorough examination to confirm the diagnosis and seek appropriate treatment. It is recommended to visit a neurology outpatient clinic. As for your eye pressure, it is advisable to have an ophthalmologist...