Eye Floaters and Flashing Lights in High Myopia Patients - Ophthalmology

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High myopia, or severe nearsightedness, can lead to a variety of visual disturbances, including the perception of eye floaters and flashing lights. These symptoms can be particularly distressing for patients, as they may indicate underlying retinal issues. In your case, the presence of floaters and flashes, especially following a diagnosis of a thinning retina and subsequent laser treatment, raises several important considerations.

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that floaters are tiny clumps of gel or cells that form in the vitreous humor, the clear gel that fills the eye. They can cast shadows on the retina, which is perceived as spots or strands in your vision. In high myopia, the vitreous gel can become more liquefied and may pull away from the retina, leading to an increase in floaters. This process can also cause flashes of light, known as photopsia, which occur when the vitreous pulls on the retina or when there is a disturbance in the retinal layers.

The fact that you experienced laser treatment for a thinning retina suggests that your eye care provider was concerned about the potential for a retinal tear or detachment. Laser treatment is often used to create a barrier around the area of concern, helping to prevent further complications. However, it’s not uncommon for patients to continue experiencing symptoms like flashes and floaters even after such interventions. This could be due to ongoing changes in the vitreous or the retina, or it could indicate that the initial treatment did not fully address the underlying issue.

Your experience of seeing a "mosaic world" when covering one eye is particularly concerning. This could suggest that there is a significant disturbance in your retinal function or that there is an area of the retina that is not processing visual information correctly. The mention of "water accumulation" in the macula (the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision) could indicate a condition known as macular edema, which can occur due to various reasons, including retinal tears, inflammation, or vascular issues.

Given that you have undergone multiple examinations and treatments, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your eye care provider. If you feel that your symptoms are not being adequately addressed, consider seeking a second opinion from a retinal specialist. They can provide a more detailed assessment of your retinal health and may offer additional diagnostic tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), which can give a clearer picture of the retinal layers and any potential issues.

In the meantime, managing your anxiety regarding these symptoms is essential. Stress can exacerbate visual disturbances and may lead to a cycle of worry that can affect your overall well-being. Engaging in relaxation techniques, ensuring you have adequate lighting when reading or working, and taking regular breaks from screens can help alleviate some discomfort.

In summary, while floaters and flashes are common in high myopia, persistent or worsening symptoms warrant further investigation. Your experience of visual distortion and the lack of clarity in your peripheral vision should be thoroughly evaluated by a specialist. Regular follow-ups and monitoring are crucial in managing your condition and ensuring that any potential complications are addressed promptly.