Eye Issues: Retinal Detachment, Flashes, and More

Q: Eye Issues: Retinal Detachment, Flashes, and More

Hello： 1. <br>Sudden retinal detachment may lead to a sudden loss of vision, while chronic detachment may begin with gradual dimming from the periphery, resulting in progressively blurred vision. <br>2. <br>Yes, if new flashes of light or other visual disturbances occur, it is ad

Eye problems

Hello, doctor.
I have some questions I would like to ask:
1.
When a retinal tear worsens into a detachment, does the vision loss happen instantly, or does it gradually darken from the edges?
2.
If I just had an eye examination last month and am now experiencing new flashes of light, should I still see a doctor?
3.
What is the typical duration of vitreous detachment?
4.
I sometimes see a ring of light at the edges of my vision for about a few seconds.
What could this be?
5.
Recently, when I close my eyes and lie down, I occasionally see large flashes of light in my entire field of vision for about 0.1 seconds.
Is this due to vitreous traction?
6.
Besides vitreous traction, what other factors can cause flashes of light?
7.
How can I determine if my vitreous has completely detached? Are there specific tests for this?
8.
I have heard that photopsia can be a precursor to macular degeneration.
What does this typically look like?
9.
If a retinal tear heals on its own, how long does it usually take? Thank you, doctor.

Shuì bù hǎo de rén, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/23

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: 1.
Sudden retinal detachment may lead to a sudden loss of vision, while chronic detachment may begin with gradual dimming from the periphery, resulting in progressively blurred vision.
2.
Yes, if new flashes of light or other visual disturbances occur, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly for an examination to ensure eye health.
3.
The duration of vitreous detachment varies from person to person; some may only need a few days, while others may require weeks or months.
Symptoms such as flashes and floaters may occur during the detachment process, but in most cases, these symptoms will gradually subside over time.
4.
The phenomenon of halos may be an optical effect, such as increased lens opacity, or it may be caused by retinal or vitreous issues; it is recommended to seek medical evaluation promptly to determine the underlying cause.
5.
This symptom may be caused by vitreous detachment; it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly for an examination to confirm the cause and follow the physician's recommendations for treatment.
6.
In addition to traction from the detaching vitreous, other potential causes of flashes include retinal tears, retinal detachment, cataracts, and other eye diseases; it is recommended to seek medical evaluation promptly.
7.
An ophthalmologist can examine the condition of the vitreous using tools such as an ophthalmoscope to determine if detachment has occurred, although complete detachment cannot be definitively assessed.
8.
Photopsia typically presents as flashes of light, halos, and may also be accompanied by decreased vision and color vision abnormalities; it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly for an examination.
9.
The time for a retinal tear to heal on its own varies based on individual circumstances, usually taking several weeks to months.
A retinal tear is a small hole in the retina, and if the hole is small, the retina may heal on its own without treatment.
During the healing process, retinal tissue gradually recovers and rebuilds.
However, spontaneous healing may take a longer time, and the success rate of self-healing is lower; therefore, it is recommended that individuals with retinal tears seek treatment advice from an ophthalmologist to reduce the risk of further retinal damage.

Reply Date: 2023/03/23

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding various eye issues, particularly those related to retinal detachment, flashes of light, and other visual disturbances. Let’s address each of your concerns systematically.

1. Retinal Detachment Progression: Retinal detachment can occur suddenly or gradually. In some cases, individuals may experience a sudden loss of vision, while in others, it may start with peripheral vision changes, such as darkening or shadowing at the edges of the visual field. If you notice a sudden change in vision, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

2. New Flashes After Recent Examination: If you have recently had an eye examination and are now experiencing new flashes of light, it is advisable to consult your eye doctor again. Flashes can indicate changes in the vitreous gel or potential retinal issues, and it’s better to err on the side of caution.

3. Vitreous Detachment Timeline: Vitreous detachment is a common condition that occurs as we age, typically after the age of 50. The process can take time, and while some people may experience it suddenly, others may notice gradual changes over weeks or months.

4. Seeing Light Rings: The appearance of light rings or halos around objects can be due to several factors, including corneal issues, cataracts, or changes in the vitreous. If this symptom persists, it’s worth discussing with your eye care professional.

5. Flashes When Lying Down: Experiencing flashes of light when lying down could indeed be related to vitreous traction on the retina. This is common and often benign, but if the flashes are frequent or accompanied by other symptoms (like a sudden increase in floaters), you should seek an evaluation.

6. Other Causes of Flashes: Besides vitreous detachment, flashes can also be caused by migraines, retinal tears, or even certain neurological conditions. It’s essential to have a thorough examination to rule out serious issues.

7. Determining Complete Vitreous Detachment: An eye care professional can assess whether your vitreous has completely detached through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include dilated fundus examination and imaging tests like OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography).

8. Visual Disturbances and Macular Degeneration: Visual disturbances such as light flashes or floaters can sometimes be early signs of macular degeneration or other retinal conditions. These symptoms may vary in appearance, and it’s important to monitor any changes closely.

9. Self-Healing of Retinal Tears: Retinal tears do not typically heal on their own. If a tear occurs, it can lead to retinal detachment, which requires prompt treatment. If you suspect a tear, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, while some symptoms may be benign, others can indicate serious conditions that require immediate attention. Regular eye examinations are essential, especially if you experience new or worsening symptoms. It’s always better to consult with your eye care provider to ensure your vision and eye health are properly monitored and managed. If you have any further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Your vision is vital, and proactive care is key to maintaining it.

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