Experiencing Flashing Lights After Running: When to Seek Eye Care? - Ophthalmology

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Experiencing flashing lights in your vision, especially after physical activity like running, can be concerning, particularly for someone with a history of high myopia (near-sightedness) and previous retinal changes. Given your situation, it is essential to understand the implications of these symptoms and when to seek further medical evaluation.

Flashing lights in the visual field, known as photopsia, can occur for various reasons. In individuals with high myopia, the risk of retinal issues, such as retinal tears or detachment, is significantly increased. This is primarily due to the elongation of the eyeball, which can lead to changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye. As the vitreous gel shrinks or pulls away from the retina, it can cause flashes of light. These flashes are often described as brief, bright spots or streaks of light, and they can be triggered by movement or changes in position, such as during vigorous activities like running.

In your case, the fact that you have experienced these flashes after running, particularly when they are accompanied by a specific visual pattern (like a "donut" shape), warrants attention. Although the flashes you describe last only about 30 seconds and resolve on their own, it is crucial to consider the following:
1. Retinal Health: Given your history of myopia and previous findings of retinal changes (slight deformation and narrowing), it is advisable to be vigilant. While the flashes may not indicate an immediate problem, they could signify changes in the vitreous that might affect the retina.

2. Timing and Context: The fact that these flashes occur after exertion and are more noticeable in low-light conditions could suggest that the physical activity is contributing to the vitreous pulling on the retina. This is particularly relevant if you are running vigorously, as the jarring motion can exacerbate any existing vitreous traction.

3. Need for Further Evaluation: While your previous eye exams indicated no significant issues, the emergence of new symptoms like flashing lights should prompt a more thorough evaluation. It is advisable to seek an appointment with a specialized ophthalmologist, preferably at a larger medical center or a hospital with a dedicated eye care department. They can perform a comprehensive dilated eye exam, which may include imaging tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or a fundus examination to assess the retina's condition more closely.

4. When to Seek Immediate Care: If you experience any additional symptoms such as a sudden increase in flashes, a significant increase in floaters, a shadow or curtain effect in your vision, or any loss of vision, you should seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a retinal tear or detachment, which require prompt intervention.

In summary, while the flashes you are experiencing may not indicate an immediate threat, they are a signal that should not be ignored, especially given your background of high myopia and previous retinal changes. It is prudent to schedule a follow-up examination with an eye care specialist to ensure your retinal health is monitored and to rule out any potential complications. Regular eye exams are essential, particularly for individuals with high myopia, to catch any changes early and maintain optimal eye health.