Seeing Flashing Rings with Eyes Closed: Causes and Concerns - Ophthalmology

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Seeing flashing lights or patterns, especially when your eyes are closed, can be concerning, particularly for someone with a history of high myopia and retinal issues. Based on your description, the phenomenon of seeing a "donut-shaped" flash of light when you close your eyes and move your eyes could be attributed to several potential causes, which I will outline below.

1. Vitreous Detachment: In individuals with high myopia, the vitreous gel inside the eye can become more prone to detachment from the retina. This can lead to visual disturbances, including flashes of light. As the vitreous pulls away from the retina, it can create sensations of light or flashes, often described as "lightning streaks" or, in your case, a "donut" shape. This is typically more noticeable in low-light conditions.

2. Retinal Issues: Given your history of retinal peripheral tears and the fact that you have undergone laser treatment, it is essential to consider the possibility of new retinal changes. Flashes of light can sometimes indicate that the retina is being stimulated or irritated, which can happen if there are new tears or if the retina is becoming more fragile. While your previous examinations showed that the tear was healing well, any new symptoms warrant a thorough examination.

3. Migraine-Related Visual Disturbances: Even if you do not have a history of migraines, some individuals experience visual disturbances that resemble migraine auras without the headache. These can include flashing lights or patterns and can be triggered by stress or fatigue.
4. Visual Snow Syndrome: This is a rare neurological condition where individuals see visual disturbances, including flashing lights, even in the absence of external stimuli. This condition is not well understood and is often associated with other visual symptoms.

5. Psychological Factors: Stress and anxiety can exacerbate visual disturbances. Your mention of increased work pressure and reliance on sleep medications could contribute to heightened awareness of visual phenomena, making you more sensitive to these flashes.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to take the following steps:
- Immediate Eye Examination: Since you have a history of retinal issues, it is advisable to seek an urgent evaluation by an ophthalmologist. They may perform a dilated eye exam to check for any new retinal tears or changes in the vitreous that could be causing these symptoms.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a log of when these flashes occur, their duration, and any associated symptoms (like headaches or visual changes). This information can be helpful for your doctor.

- Manage Stress: Since stress can exacerbate visual disturbances, consider incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle exercise into your routine.

- Review Medications: Discuss your current medications with your healthcare provider, especially since you are taking sleep aids. Some medications can have side effects that affect vision.

In conclusion, while the flashing lights you are experiencing could be related to vitreous changes or other benign causes, given your medical history, it is essential to have a comprehensive eye examination to rule out any serious conditions such as retinal detachment. Early detection and intervention are key to preserving your vision and addressing any underlying issues.