Visual Disturbances: Insights on Flashing Lights and Eye Symptoms - Neurology

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Frequent bright spots and flashes in the eyes are indicative of enhanced Scherer's symptom?


Hello Doctor, I am really very anxious and I seek your help to understand what might be wrong with me.
I apologize for the lengthy message.
My symptoms started in January after I bought a VR headset out of curiosity and used it for two months.
After pressing my eyeball with my finger once, I developed floaters in my vision.
I went to an ophthalmology clinic for an examination, and there were no major issues; it was diagnosed as physiological floaters.
However, afterwards, I began to see many bright spots moving around when looking at the sky, similar to the symptoms described online as Scheerer's phenomenon.
Last week, I visited the ophthalmology department at Renai Hospital in Taipei and underwent another dilated fundus examination, which again showed no significant problems.
The ophthalmologist assured me that the structure of my eyes is definitely fine and that I do not need to undergo an eye CT scan.
He suggested that I see a neurologist.
1.
Recently, I feel that the Scheerer's phenomenon has gradually worsened.
When I look at bright areas, including sunlit asphalt roads and illuminated books, I see bright spots moving along fixed paths (the spots are not very dense, resembling white blood cells in blood vessels).
I also occasionally experience a sensation similar to visual snow, and I see two fixed bright spots, but they disappear with a blink or a quick glance.
There are also very bright fixed spots that feel like strong light, and they also disappear with a blink.
The bright spots are very small, approximately less than 0.5 mm in size.
2.
When looking at distant black objects (such as black cars or tree shadows) in bright light, I see strange, extremely dark patches flickering around my focal point.
However, these symptoms do not occur when I close my eyes in the dark, and both eyes are affected.
3.
Last year, I often felt a trembling sensation inside my body when lying flat (similar to the feeling of nerves shaking after exerting my hand).
When I was close to falling asleep, I also experienced a migraine-like flashing sensation in my eyes that lasted from 10 seconds to 5 minutes, occurring in both eyes, but without an actual migraine.
I felt a pressure in the back of my head, which alleviated after I fell asleep, and I did not wake up with a headache.
Sometimes, I also see flashes when looking at fluorescent lights in dim places; it’s not a bright flash, but rather a dimming, like a faulty light bulb.
4.
During that time, I was under a lot of stress due to final exams, and I consulted a cardiologist and an endocrinologist.
The cardiologist noted that I have some sinus arrhythmia but no major issues.
I underwent an echocardiogram and a 24-hour ECG, both of which were normal.
The endocrinologist conducted tests for the autonomic nervous system and blood tests, all of which were also normal.
5.
The frequent flashing sensation in my eyes has recently diminished, but over the past two months, I have started to feel pressure in the back of my head near the neck and occipital region when lying flat.
I need to sit up to relieve it, but it subsides after I fall asleep.
I also experience some tinnitus and a high-frequency ringing in my ears, with the sensation of pressure in the back of my head and around my ears.
6.
Recently, when I am about to fall asleep or get startled awake, I see a flash of white light, which makes me fear that something might be wrong with my brain.
My sleep schedule is not very irregular; I have been going to bed around midnight and waking up around 7 AM for the past two years.
However, since the onset of the floaters, I have been very worried.
7.
Additionally, my blood pressure tends to be on the higher side, around 120-140 over 80-90.
8.
I really love playing the piano.
I started playing at three and a half years old and have played a lot throughout high school and college.
I would like to ask the doctor if playing the piano has any significant negative effects on the nervous system.
I have many questions and feel quite helpless.
I sincerely ask for your help in clarifying these issues.
I would be extremely grateful.
Thank you for reading this, from a very anxious college student.

Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/24

Dr. Hong Weibin reply Neurology


Hello: 1-4.
It is likely due to eye strain; I recommend reducing the use of VR, mobile phones, and computers, and taking more breaks.
Improvement is expected in a few months.
5-6.
It may be "typical aura without headache." In some patients, typical auras are always accompanied by migraines; however, many patients may experience visual auras followed by mild headaches or even no headache at all.
7.
You can consult a neurologist to arrange for an electroencephalogram (EEG) to check for any brain function abnormalities.
8.
The most common injury caused by playing the piano is a musculoskeletal disorder known as playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (PRMD).
The most frequently injured areas are the shoulders, followed by the arms, fingers, and wrists.
The most common symptoms include pain, fatigue, and stiffness.
Adequate rest and muscle relaxation can help alleviate the symptoms.
References: 1.
IHS Classification ICHD-3 1.2.1.2 Typical aura without headache.
2.
Ling, Chia-Ying, Fung-Chiat Loo, and Titi R.
Hamedon.
"Playing-related musculoskeletal disorders among classical piano students at tertiary institutions in Malaysia: proportion and associated risk factors." Medical Problems of Performing Artists 33.2 (2018): 82-89.

Reply Date: 2021/04/24

More Info


Hello, thank you for sharing your concerns regarding your visual disturbances and overall health. It sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms that are understandably causing you anxiety. Let's break down your symptoms and explore potential causes and recommendations.

1. Visual Disturbances: The symptoms you describe, such as seeing bright spots, flashes of light, and the sensation of moving bright points, can be associated with several conditions. One possibility is visual snow syndrome, which is characterized by seeing static or "snow" in the visual field, often accompanied by bright spots or flashes. Another possibility is photopsia, which refers to the perception of flashes of light that can occur due to various reasons, including retinal issues or even migraines.

2. Flashes and Floaters: You mentioned experiencing floaters (the "flying mosquitoes" you referred to) and flashes of light after using VR and pressing on your eyes. Floaters are often benign and related to the natural aging process of the vitreous gel in the eye. However, if you notice an increase in floaters or flashes, especially if they are accompanied by a curtain-like shadow in your vision, it could indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which requires immediate medical attention.

3. Eye Strain and Fatigue: Your symptoms may also be exacerbated by eye strain, especially if you have been using VR for extended periods. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, which may cause discomfort, visual disturbances, and fatigue. It's essential to take regular breaks and practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

4. Neurological Symptoms: The sensations you describe, such as feeling a vibration in your body when lying down, and the pressure in the back of your head, could be related to tension or anxiety. Stress can manifest physically, leading to muscle tension and headaches. Additionally, the experience of seeing flashes of light when startled or waking up can be a form of hypnagogic hallucination, which is generally benign.

5. Consulting Specialists: Since your eye examinations have not revealed any significant issues, and your doctor has suggested seeing a neurologist, it may be beneficial to follow this advice. A neurologist can evaluate your symptoms further, especially regarding the sensations in your head and any potential neurological conditions.

6. Blood Pressure and Overall Health: You mentioned having slightly elevated blood pressure. It's crucial to monitor this, as high blood pressure can contribute to various health issues, including eye problems. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques, can help manage blood pressure.

7. Piano Playing and Neurological Impact: Playing the piano is generally considered a beneficial activity for brain health. It can enhance cognitive function, improve coordination, and provide emotional benefits. However, if you are experiencing discomfort or strain while playing, it may be worth evaluating your posture and technique to prevent any potential issues.

In summary, while your symptoms are concerning, many of them can be attributed to benign causes such as eye strain, anxiety, or normal physiological responses. However, it is essential to continue seeking medical advice, especially from specialists who can provide a comprehensive evaluation. Remember to take care of your mental health as well, as anxiety can exacerbate physical symptoms. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare providers will help ensure that you receive the appropriate care and support.

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