Eye Flashes and Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Q: Eye Flashes and Pain: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Hello： <br>1. <br>The phenomenon of flashes may be due to： <br> - Vitreous opacities： The vitreous is a gel-like substance that fills the interior of the eye, which can become cloudy due to aging or other reasons. <br>When light enters the eye, the cloudy vitreous may cause the

Flashes of light in the eyes?

Hello Doctor, I have two questions I would like to ask.

1.
In late April, I experienced floaters and went to a clinic for a dilated eye exam.
After the examination, the doctor said my retina was fine and advised me to have regular follow-ups (once a year).
Recently (around June 1x), I noticed sudden flashes of light when I closed my eyes before sleeping, which startled me awake.
I can confirm that this occurred while my eyes were closed.
I researched online but am still unclear whether this is a symptom of floaters or if I should see an ophthalmologist for this symptom.
2.
In addition to the floaters, during the eye exam in late April, I also reported a problem with my left eye, which experiences intermittent sharp pain, occasional pain in the lower eyelid, and sometimes pain at the outer corner of the eye.
This pain can radiate to my temples, ears, and even the back of my head, and sometimes it shifts to the right eye.
Since late April, I have visited the clinic five times and seen three different doctors, and the last two doctors said there was not much wrong with my eyes.
I would like to know what this could possibly be and if I should be referred to a neurologist.
Thank you, Doctor, for taking the time to answer my questions!

Mr. Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/15

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello:
1.
The phenomenon of flashes may be due to:
- Vitreous opacities: The vitreous is a gel-like substance that fills the interior of the eye, which can become cloudy due to aging or other reasons.
When light enters the eye, the cloudy vitreous may cause the sensation of flashes.

- Vitreous detachment or separation: When the vitreous separates from the retina, it may produce a sensation of flashes.
This condition is often accompanied by the appearance of floaters, which are small black dots or lines in the field of vision.

- Retinal detachment: Retinal detachment is a serious ophthalmic condition in which the retina separates from the tissue at the back of the eye.
This can lead to flashes and blurred vision, requiring immediate medical attention.

2.
Regarding the issue of eye pain, if the ophthalmologist has ruled out ocular problems and the symptoms persist, a referral to a neurologist would be a good option.

Reply Date: 2023/06/15

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your questions regarding your eye health. It’s understandable to be concerned about symptoms like flashes of light and eye pain, especially after experiencing issues like floaters. Let’s break down your concerns.

1. Flashes of Light: The appearance of flashes of light, especially when closing your eyes, can be alarming. These flashes can occur due to various reasons, including vitreous detachment, which is common and often benign, but it can also indicate more serious conditions like retinal tears or detachment. Since you had a thorough examination in April that showed no retinal issues, it’s likely that the flashes you are experiencing now are related to the vitreous gel in your eye pulling away from the retina. However, it’s essential to monitor this symptom closely. If the flashes become more frequent, are accompanied by a significant increase in floaters, or if you notice any changes in your vision (like a curtain or shadow), you should seek immediate medical attention. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential retinal issues.

2. Eye Pain and Discomfort: The intermittent pain you’re experiencing in your left eye, which radiates to other areas like the temple and back of the head, could be indicative of several conditions. Since you've seen multiple doctors who have not found any significant issues with your eyes, this pain may not be directly related to an ocular problem. It could be related to tension headaches, migraines, or even sinus issues, especially if the pain is affecting areas beyond the eye itself. Given that the pain shifts from one eye to the other and involves other regions of your head, it might be worthwhile to consult a neurologist. They can evaluate for conditions like migraines or other neurological issues that could be causing these symptoms.

In summary, while your previous eye examinations have not indicated any serious problems, the new symptoms you’re experiencing warrant careful observation. If the flashes of light persist or worsen, or if you have any new visual disturbances, it’s crucial to return to an eye care professional for further evaluation. For the pain, considering a referral to a neurologist may provide additional insights and management options.

In the meantime, ensure you’re taking regular breaks from screens to reduce eye strain, stay hydrated, and manage stress, as these factors can contribute to both eye discomfort and headaches. If you have any further questions or if your symptoms change, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. Your eye health is important, and staying proactive about any changes is key to maintaining it.

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