Frequent Flashes and Shadows: Eye Symptoms After Roller Coaster Rides

Frequent flashes and shadows?

Hello, doctor! On June 20th, while traveling with my family, I rode some thrilling amusement rides, and at that moment, I felt fine.
However, the next day when I got up, I noticed an increase in floaters in my left eye, along with flashes and shadows.
On June 23rd, I went to an ophthalmology clinic for a dilated fundus examination, and the doctor said there were no tears and that there was not much to worry about, advising me to observe the situation.
Over the next three days, the flashes and shadows (the shadows appear suddenly like the flashes and then disappear; I'm not sure if they are remnants of the floaters) continued.
On June 27th, feeling uneasy, I went to a larger hospital for further examination, including ultra-widefield fundus photography.
The doctor confirmed that my retina was intact and said the likelihood of retinal detachment in my case was extremely low.
However, over these three days, I have gradually adapted to the new floaters, but the frequency of the flashes and the aforementioned shadows remains high, occurring every few minutes, which still worries me.
I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
If the frequency of the flashes and shadows continues as such, but my vision is not darkened or obscured, should I seek further examination, and how long should I wait before considering a follow-up? What is the recommended frequency for check-ups?
2.
Besides avoiding heavy lifting, what other positions should I be cautious about? Is it okay to bend over or lower my head (for example, when washing my hair)?
3.
Recently, I have been feeling a heaviness and tightness around my brow and eye socket.
Could this be related to my vision condition?
Thank you for taking the time to respond!

Xiao Lu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/30

Dr. Cai Wenyuan reply Ophthalmology

Monitor the situation, and if symptoms worsen, seek medical evaluation.

Reply Date: 2023/06/30

More Info

Experiencing frequent flashes and shadows in your vision after riding a roller coaster can be concerning, especially when accompanied by an increase in floaters. Based on your description, it seems that you have undergone thorough examinations, including dilation and wide-angle retinal photography, which have ruled out significant issues like retinal tears or detachments. However, your ongoing symptoms warrant further discussion.

1. Frequency of Symptoms and Follow-Up: If the flashes and shadows persist but do not worsen or lead to significant visual obstruction, it is generally advisable to monitor the situation closely. However, if you notice an increase in the frequency or intensity of these symptoms, or if you experience any new symptoms such as a curtain-like shadow over your vision or a sudden increase in floaters, you should seek immediate medical attention. As for follow-up appointments, it is reasonable to schedule another visit in a few weeks if your symptoms remain unchanged. Regular check-ups every 4 to 6 weeks can help ensure that any changes in your condition are promptly addressed.

2. Physical Activities and Posture: While avoiding heavy lifting is a good precaution, you should also be mindful of other activities that could strain your eyes or head. Bending over or looking down, such as when washing your hair, can sometimes exacerbate symptoms, especially if there is any underlying vitreous detachment. It is advisable to perform such activities gently and avoid sudden movements. If you notice that certain positions trigger or worsen your symptoms, it may be best to avoid them until your symptoms improve.

3. Tension Around the Eyes: The feeling of heaviness or tightness around your forehead and eye sockets could be related to several factors, including eye strain, tension headaches, or even anxiety stemming from your visual symptoms. If you are spending a lot of time focusing on screens or reading, this could contribute to eye strain, leading to discomfort. It is essential to take regular breaks, practice the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and ensure you are using proper lighting when reading or working. If the heaviness persists or worsens, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any other underlying conditions.

In summary, while your recent eye examinations have not indicated any serious issues, it is crucial to remain vigilant about your symptoms. Keep track of any changes and maintain open communication with your eye care provider. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms evolve, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation. Your eye health is paramount, and proactive monitoring can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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