Eye Symptoms: Itchy Eyes, Flashing Lights, and Visual Disturbances - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for your detailed questions regarding your eye symptoms. It sounds like you are experiencing a range of visual disturbances, including itchy eyes, flashing lights, and visual phenomena that can be concerning. Let's break down your symptoms and explore potential causes and recommendations.

1. Itchy Eyes: Itching in the eyes can be caused by several factors, including allergies, dry eyes, or irritation from environmental factors such as dust or smoke. When you cover your head with a blanket, it may trap heat and moisture, leading to discomfort. If you frequently experience itchy eyes, consider using artificial tears to lubricate your eyes or antihistamine eye drops if allergies are suspected.

2. Flashing Lights: The sensation of seeing flashes of light, especially when squinting or straining your eyes, can be related to several conditions. One common cause is the stimulation of the retina, which can occur when the vitreous gel inside the eye pulls on the retina, especially in individuals with myopia (nearsightedness) or those who have experienced changes in their vision. While occasional flashes may not be alarming, if they are persistent or accompanied by other symptoms (like a curtain or shadow in your vision), it is crucial to seek an eye examination to rule out retinal detachment or other serious conditions.

3. Yellow Circle Phenomenon: The experience of seeing a yellow solid circle that expands and then shrinks could be related to a visual migraine or a phenomenon known as a scotoma, which is a partial loss of vision or a blind spot in an otherwise normal visual field. Visual migraines can occur without a headache and may present as various visual disturbances, including shimmering lights or shapes. If this happens frequently, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.

4. Visual Disturbances on Bathroom Tiles: Seeing a faint yellow mesh pattern on tiles that others do not perceive could be a form of visual distortion or an afterimage effect. This can occur due to the way your eyes adapt to light and contrast. If your sister does not see the same pattern, it may indicate a difference in how your visual systems process light and color. This is generally not a cause for concern unless it is accompanied by other troubling symptoms.

5. General Recommendations: Given your symptoms, it is essential to maintain regular eye check-ups, especially since you have a history of myopia and visual disturbances. Keeping your eyes well-hydrated with artificial tears, taking breaks from screens, and ensuring proper lighting can help reduce eye strain. If you notice any new symptoms or if your current symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to an eye care professional for a thorough examination.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be benign and related to eye strain or environmental factors, others, particularly flashing lights and persistent visual disturbances, warrant further investigation. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to eye health. Please take care of your eyes, and I hope this information helps clarify your concerns!