Seeing Shadows and Flashes: Eye Symptoms and Concerns - Ophthalmology

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Seeing shadows and flashes in your vision can be concerning, especially when accompanied by other symptoms like headaches and visual disturbances. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of visual phenomena that may be related to several underlying issues.

Firstly, the "bright things" you see when looking to the side could be related to a phenomenon known as "photopsia," which is often described as flashes of light or bright spots in the visual field. This can occur due to various reasons, including vitreous detachment, where the gel-like substance in the eye begins to pull away from the retina. This is common, especially in individuals who are nearsighted or have experienced changes in their eye structure.

The presence of a "black shadow" or "dark spot" in your vision, particularly in the center, could be indicative of a condition known as a "floaters" or "vitreous floaters." These are tiny clumps of gel or cells inside the vitreous that cast shadows on the retina, leading to the perception of spots or shadows in your vision. While floaters are usually harmless, a sudden increase in their number, especially if accompanied by flashes of light, can be a sign of retinal issues, such as a tear or detachment, which requires immediate medical attention.

Your experience of seeing a bright area when your eyes are closed could be related to the way your brain processes visual information. When the eyes are closed, the brain may still perceive light and create visual sensations, which can sometimes appear as bright spots or patterns.

The headaches you mentioned, particularly if they are similar to your previous migraine experiences, could be linked to the visual disturbances. Migraines can often be accompanied by aura symptoms, which may include visual changes such as flashes of light or blind spots. However, the fact that you are experiencing these symptoms in conjunction with new visual phenomena warrants further investigation.

Given that you have already seen an eye doctor who diagnosed mild corneal inflammation and prescribed eye drops, it is essential to follow up on your symptoms, especially since they have changed and worsened over the past week. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be advisable to seek a second opinion from another ophthalmologist. They may recommend additional tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or a comprehensive retinal examination, to rule out any serious conditions like retinal tears or detachments.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be benign, the combination of flashes, shadows, and headaches, especially with a recent change in your vision, should not be taken lightly. It is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely and seek further evaluation to ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed. Regular eye examinations and prompt attention to any changes in your vision are key to maintaining eye health and preventing potential complications.