Floaters and Flashing Lights: When to Seek Eye Care - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

When it comes to experiencing floaters and flashing lights in your vision, it's important to understand the underlying causes and when to seek professional eye care. Based on your description, you have been experiencing floaters since January, along with occasional flashes of light, particularly in low-light conditions. You also mentioned having undergone multiple dilated eye examinations, which is a proactive approach to monitoring your eye health, especially given your history of high myopia (nearsightedness).


Understanding Floaters and Flashes
Floaters are small specks or strands that drift through your field of vision, often more noticeable against bright backgrounds. They are typically caused by changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye, which can become more liquid and form clumps or strands as we age. In your case, with a history of high myopia, the likelihood of experiencing floaters increases due to the structural changes in the eye.

Flashes of light, on the other hand, can occur when the vitreous gel pulls on the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. This pulling can stimulate the retina and create the sensation of seeing flashes or streaks of light. While occasional flashes can be benign, they can also indicate more serious conditions, such as retinal tears or detachments, especially in individuals with high myopia.


When to Seek Eye Care
1. Persistent Symptoms: If you notice a sudden increase in the number of floaters or flashes, or if you experience new symptoms such as a shadow or curtain effect in your vision, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of retinal detachment, which is a medical emergency.

2. Regular Monitoring: Since you have undergone multiple eye examinations and have been told that there are no retinal tears or holes, it is reassuring. However, given your high myopia, it is wise to continue regular check-ups with an eye care professional. They can monitor any changes in your retina and vitreous over time.

3. Consulting Specialists: If you feel uncertain about the assessments you've received, it is perfectly reasonable to seek a second opinion, especially from a retinal specialist. They can provide more specialized insights into your condition and discuss the potential need for preventive measures, such as laser treatment, if deemed necessary.


Addressing Your Concerns
1. Preventive Laser Treatment: The decision to perform preventive laser treatment is typically based on the presence of certain risk factors, including the condition of the retina and the presence of any tears or holes. If multiple specialists have assessed your retina and found no significant issues, it may be appropriate to monitor your condition rather than pursue unnecessary interventions.

2. Visual Phenomena: The small white dots you see, especially against bright backgrounds, could indeed be related to the phenomenon known as "Scheerer's phenomenon," which is often benign. However, if these symptoms are new or increasing in frequency, it may warrant further investigation.

3. Dry Eyes and Vitreous Changes: Your symptoms could also be exacerbated by dry eyes or changes in the vitreous gel. Ensuring proper hydration, using artificial tears, and taking regular breaks from screens can help alleviate some discomfort.


Conclusion
In summary, while floaters and flashes can be concerning, they are often benign, especially if accompanied by regular eye examinations that show no significant retinal issues. However, vigilance is key, and any new or worsening symptoms should prompt immediate consultation with an eye care professional. It's essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers and advocate for your eye health, ensuring that you receive the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.