Visual Disturbances: Flickering and Brightness Changes Explained - Ophthalmology

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Your symptoms of visual disturbances, particularly the flickering and brightness changes you are experiencing, can be quite concerning, especially given your history of myopia and the various tests you've undergone. Let's break down your situation and explore potential explanations for these phenomena.

Firstly, it's important to note that visual disturbances can arise from a variety of causes, and in your case, they may be related to the following factors:
1. Myopia and Visual Fatigue: With a high degree of myopia (approximately -6.50 to -8.50 diopters), your eyes are under constant strain, especially when focusing on screens or reading materials. This strain can lead to visual fatigue, which may manifest as flickering or changes in brightness perception. When your eyes are tired, they may not respond as well to changes in light, leading to the sensations you describe.

2. Retinal Health: Although you have undergone comprehensive eye examinations, including OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) and visual field tests, it is crucial to keep monitoring your retinal health. Conditions such as retinal detachment or vitreous detachment can cause visual disturbances, including flickering lights or changes in brightness. However, since your previous tests were normal, this may be less likely, but it is still worth mentioning to your eye care professional if symptoms persist.

3. Vitreous Changes: As we age, the vitreous gel inside the eye can undergo changes, leading to symptoms like floaters or flickering lights. This is often benign but can be bothersome. If you notice an increase in floaters or flashes of light, it is essential to seek further evaluation, as these can sometimes indicate more serious conditions.

4. Neurological Factors: Given that you have had an MRI of the brain, which returned normal results, it is less likely that your symptoms are due to a neurological issue. However, visual processing in the brain can be affected by fatigue, stress, or even migraines, leading to transient visual disturbances. If you have a history of migraines, this could be a contributing factor.

5. Environmental Factors: The lighting conditions in which you work or spend time can also affect your visual perception. For instance, glare from screens or bright lights can cause discomfort and alter your perception of brightness. Adjusting your workspace to reduce glare and ensuring proper lighting can help alleviate some of these symptoms.

6. Eye Strain from Digital Devices: Prolonged use of computers and digital devices can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by symptoms such as dryness, discomfort, and visual disturbances. Implementing the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes—can help reduce eye strain.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to myopia and visual fatigue, it is essential to continue monitoring your eye health and report any new or worsening symptoms to your eye care provider. If the flickering and brightness changes persist or worsen, further evaluation may be warranted, including a more detailed examination of the retina and vitreous. Regular follow-ups with your eye doctor are crucial, especially given your history of high myopia. Additionally, maintaining good eye hygiene, taking regular breaks from screens, and ensuring proper lighting can help manage your symptoms. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.