Eye Flickering: Causes and Solutions for Persistent Symptoms - Ophthalmology

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Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the persistent flickering or shaking sensations in your vision. It sounds like you are experiencing a frustrating and uncomfortable situation, and I will do my best to provide you with some insights based on the information you've shared.

Flickering or shaking in your vision, especially when it occurs both with your eyes closed and open, can be attributed to several potential causes. Since you have already undergone a thorough eye examination, including a fundus check, and no significant abnormalities were found, we can explore some other possibilities.

1. Eye Fatigue and Strain: One of the most common causes of visual disturbances, including flickering, is eye fatigue. This can occur from prolonged screen time, reading, or focusing on tasks without adequate breaks. The muscles that control eye movement can become fatigued, leading to symptoms like flickering or difficulty maintaining focus. It is essential to practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain.

2. Dry Eyes: Another possibility is dry eye syndrome, which can cause discomfort and visual disturbances. When your eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, it can lead to symptoms like flickering, burning, or a gritty sensation. If you suspect this might be the case, using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops may provide relief.

3. Neurological Factors: In some cases, flickering or shaking sensations can be related to neurological issues. Conditions such as migraines can cause visual disturbances, including flickering lights or visual snow. If you have a history of migraines, this could be a contributing factor. Additionally, stress and anxiety can exacerbate visual symptoms, so managing stress levels through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices may help.

4. Vestibular Issues: Sometimes, issues related to the vestibular system, which helps control balance and spatial orientation, can manifest as visual disturbances. If you have experienced dizziness or balance issues alongside the flickering, it may be worth consulting with a specialist in vestibular disorders.

5. Visual Processing Issues: There are instances where the brain's processing of visual information can lead to flickering sensations. This can occur in individuals with certain visual processing disorders, where the brain struggles to interpret visual signals correctly. If this is suspected, a vision therapy program may be beneficial.

6. Medication Side Effects: If you are taking any medications, it is essential to consider whether they might be contributing to your symptoms. Some medications can cause visual disturbances as side effects. Discussing this with your healthcare provider could provide further insight.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for over a week, it would be wise to follow up with your eye care professional or consider seeking a second opinion from another ophthalmologist or a neurologist. They may recommend additional tests or evaluations to rule out any underlying conditions that could be contributing to your symptoms.

In the meantime, ensure you are taking regular breaks from screens, staying hydrated, and using lubricating eye drops if you suspect dryness. Keeping a symptom diary, noting when the flickering occurs and any associated activities or stressors, can also be helpful for your healthcare provider in diagnosing the issue.

I hope this information helps you understand your symptoms better and provides some potential avenues for relief. Please take care of your eyes, and do not hesitate to seek further medical advice if your symptoms continue or worsen.