Eye Lightning: Causes and Concerns for Vision Changes - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for sharing your concerns regarding the visual disturbances you are experiencing. Based on your description, it seems that you are encountering symptoms such as black or purple spots in your vision, particularly when you turn your head quickly or blink rapidly. These symptoms can indeed be concerning, especially since they have persisted for several months.

First, it's important to understand that visual disturbances like the ones you described can arise from various underlying causes. While your recent examination ruled out retinal tears or detachments, which are serious conditions, there are still several other factors that could contribute to your symptoms.

1. Vitreous Degeneration: As we age, the vitreous gel that fills the eye can undergo changes, leading to what is known as vitreous degeneration. This can cause floaters or flashes of light, which might appear as black or purple spots in your vision. Although you mentioned that your doctor noted retinal degeneration, this could be a normal part of the aging process and may not necessarily indicate a serious issue.

2. Migraine Auras: Another possibility is that your symptoms could be related to migraine auras. These can occur even in individuals who do not experience typical migraines. Auras can manifest as visual disturbances, including flashes of light or dark spots, and may be triggered by various factors such as stress, fatigue, or certain foods.

3. Retinal Issues: While your initial examination did not reveal any tears or detachments, it is still essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Conditions such as retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) changes or other degenerative retinal diseases can lead to similar visual disturbances. If your symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, further evaluation by a retinal specialist may be warranted.

4. Ocular Health: Given your history of myopia (nearsightedness) and the degree of your prescription, it is crucial to maintain regular eye examinations. High myopia can increase the risk of retinal complications, and ongoing monitoring is essential to catch any potential issues early.

5. Stress and Fatigue: Lastly, factors such as stress, fatigue, and prolonged screen time can exacerbate visual disturbances. Ensuring that you take regular breaks, practice good eye hygiene, and manage stress levels can be beneficial.

Regarding your concerns about whether these symptoms will persist, it is difficult to predict without a thorough examination and understanding of your specific situation. Some individuals may experience temporary disturbances that resolve on their own, while others may have ongoing symptoms that require management.

If you have not already done so, I recommend scheduling a follow-up appointment with an eye care professional, preferably one who specializes in retinal health. They can perform more comprehensive tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or visual field testing, to gain a better understanding of your condition.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to vitreous changes or other benign conditions, it is essential to remain vigilant and seek further evaluation if your symptoms persist or worsen. Regular eye care is crucial, especially with your history of myopia, to ensure your ocular health remains stable. Please take care, and I hope you find relief from your symptoms soon!