Floaters and Flashes: Exercise Guidelines for Eye Health

Q: Floaters and Flashes: Exercise Guidelines for Eye Health

Hello： Thank you for your detailed description. Floaters and flashes are typically associated with vitreous degeneration and retinal traction. The symptoms you described do require attention, especially given the presence of areas of retinal weakness. 1. Are a

Vitreous floaters combined with photopsia?

Hello, doctor.
I have myopia with a prescription of -5.25 in my right eye and -5.00 in my left eye.
Last week, I suddenly experienced symptoms of floaters in my right eye, accompanied by flashes of light (which I only see when I turn my eye to the right).
I immediately went to an ophthalmologist for a dilated fundus examination.
After the examination, the doctor mentioned that the retina in my right eye is thinner in some areas, but there are no other issues.
If there are no further abnormalities, I should return for a follow-up in six months.

I would like to ask you, the ophthalmologist only advised me to avoid excessive and vigorous head movements, but I have had a regular exercise routine for over four years, primarily involving high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and jump rope.
I did not suddenly change my exercise habits last week, and I am very concerned that my exercise might have caused vitreous degeneration or retinal issues.
I found online that some people have experienced floaters due to jump rope exercises.
After researching a lot of information online, I would like to ask you a few questions:
1.
Are exercises like jumping jacks, jump rope, and rapid jumps unsuitable for me to continue?
2.
Can I perform exercises that may increase intraocular pressure, such as push-ups, squats, and sit-ups?
3.
If the vitreous successfully detaches from the retina and there is no risk of retinal tears or detachment, is it safe to resume the aforementioned exercises?
4.
What types of exercises are suitable for someone with floaters?
Thank you for your response.
I am an exercise enthusiast who is currently feeling lost.

Mo Ni, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/22

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Thank you for your detailed description.
Floaters and flashes are typically associated with vitreous degeneration and retinal traction.
The symptoms you described do require attention, especially given the presence of areas of retinal weakness.

1.
Are activities like jumping, skipping rope, or high-impact jumping unsuitable? Due to the potential for these high-impact exercises to increase vitreous traction on the retina, it is advisable to temporarily avoid them.
High-intensity jumping movements may elevate the risk of retinal damage, particularly in areas of pre-existing retinal weakness.
2.
Can exercises that may cause a temporary increase in intraocular pressure, such as push-ups, squats, or sit-ups, be performed? These activities may cause a brief rise in intraocular pressure, but the risk is lower compared to high-impact exercises.
It is recommended to perform these exercises in moderation, avoiding excessive strain, and to discuss a specific exercise plan with your ophthalmologist.
3.
If the vitreous has successfully detached from the retina without causing any retinal tears or detachments, is it appropriate to resume the aforementioned activities? If the vitreous has completely detached without causing retinal tears or detachments, the risk is significantly reduced.
However, it is still important to monitor the intensity and type of exercise, and it is advisable to gradually resume activities under the guidance of a physician.
4.
What exercises are suitable for individuals with floaters? Gentle and low-impact exercises such as walking, yoga, swimming, and cycling are safer options.
These activities not only help maintain overall health but also minimize excessive impact on the eyes.
I hope the above suggestions are helpful to you, and I wish you good health and happiness.

Reply Date: 2024/07/22

More Info

Understanding floaters and flashes, especially in the context of high myopia and recent symptoms, is crucial for maintaining eye health. Floaters are often caused by changes in the vitreous gel of the eye, which can occur with age or due to myopia. Flashes, on the other hand, can indicate that the vitreous is pulling on the retina, which can be concerning, particularly if there are areas of retinal thinning, as you mentioned.

1. High-Impact Exercises: Given your recent experience with floaters and flashes, it's advisable to avoid high-impact exercises such as jumping jacks, jump rope, or any rapid jumping movements. These activities can create sudden changes in intraocular pressure and may exacerbate the pulling effect of the vitreous on the retina. Since your doctor has already advised against excessive head movements, it would be prudent to heed this advice and temporarily modify your exercise routine to include lower-impact activities.

2. Resistance Training: Exercises that can increase intraocular pressure, such as push-ups, squats, and sit-ups, should be approached with caution. While these exercises may not pose as high a risk as high-impact activities, they can still lead to transient increases in eye pressure. If you choose to engage in these exercises, do so with moderation and avoid straining. It’s essential to listen to your body and stop if you experience any discomfort or visual disturbances.

3. Post-Vitreous Detachment: If the vitreous has successfully detached from the retina without causing any tears or detachment, the risk associated with high-impact exercises may decrease. However, it’s crucial to consult with your ophthalmologist before resuming any strenuous activities. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific condition and the results of your eye examinations.

4. Recommended Exercises: For individuals experiencing floaters, low-impact exercises are generally safer. Activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga can help maintain fitness without putting undue stress on the eyes. These exercises promote overall health and can be performed without the risk of exacerbating your symptoms.

In addition to modifying your exercise routine, consider the following eye care tips:
- Regular Eye Exams: Continue with regular check-ups with your eye care professional, especially if you notice any changes in your symptoms. Early detection of any potential issues is key to preventing complications.

- Eye Rest: Ensure that you give your eyes adequate rest, especially if you spend long hours in front of screens. The 20-20-20 rule can be beneficial: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

- Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can support eye health.

- Avoid Eye Strain: Be mindful of activities that may strain your eyes, such as reading in poor lighting or staring at screens for extended periods without breaks.

In conclusion, while it’s understandable to feel anxious about your eye health and the implications of your symptoms, making informed choices about your exercise and eye care can help you manage your condition effectively. Always prioritize communication with your healthcare provider, as they can offer tailored advice based on your unique situation. Your commitment to maintaining an active lifestyle is commendable, and with the right precautions, you can continue to enjoy physical activity while safeguarding your vision.

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