Flashing Lights in Vision: Causes, Duration, and Treatment Options - Ophthalmology

More Info

---

Flashing lights in vision, particularly in individuals with high myopia (nearsightedness), can be concerning and often indicate underlying issues related to the vitreous body and retina. In your case, with a history of high myopia exceeding -1200 diopters, the symptoms you describe—flashing lights that span your entire visual field—are likely related to vitreous degeneration or detachment.

Causes of Flashing Lights
Flashing lights, or photopsia, can occur when the vitreous gel inside the eye begins to shrink and pull away from the retina. This process can create traction on the retina, leading to the perception of flashes of light. In high myopia, the risk of vitreous detachment is increased due to the elongation of the eyeball, which can cause the vitreous to separate from the retina more easily.
Additionally, the presence of floaters (or "flying flies") is common in individuals with vitreous changes. These floaters are small clumps of gel or cells within the vitreous that cast shadows on the retina, contributing to visual disturbances.

Duration of Symptoms
The duration of flashing lights can vary significantly from person to person. In many cases, if the flashes are due to a benign vitreous detachment, they may gradually decrease over weeks to months as the vitreous fully separates from the retina. However, some individuals may continue to experience intermittent flashes for an extended period, potentially even for life. It is essential to monitor these symptoms closely, as changes in frequency or intensity could indicate complications such as retinal tears or detachments, which require immediate medical attention.


Treatment Options
Currently, there is no specific treatment to eliminate flashes of light caused by vitreous changes. However, if a retinal tear or detachment is diagnosed, surgical intervention may be necessary. Regular follow-ups with an ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor your condition and ensure that no complications arise.


Contact Lenses and Surgical Options
Regarding your question about wearing contact lenses, individuals with high myopia can typically wear contact lenses, including soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses. However, it is essential to consult with your eye care provider to ensure that your eyes are healthy enough for contact lens wear, especially considering your vitreous condition.

You also mentioned interest in implantable contact lenses (ICLs) as a treatment for high myopia. ICLs can be an excellent option for individuals with high refractive errors who may not be suitable candidates for laser vision correction. However, like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including infection, cataract formation, and potential complications related to the lens placement. A thorough evaluation by an ophthalmologist specializing in refractive surgery is necessary to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this procedure.


Conclusion
In summary, flashing lights in your vision are likely related to vitreous changes due to your high myopia. While these flashes may persist, regular monitoring and follow-up with your eye care provider are essential. You can consider wearing contact lenses, and ICLs may be a viable option for correcting your vision, but a detailed assessment is necessary to weigh the benefits and risks. Always prioritize your eye health and seek immediate medical attention if you notice any sudden changes in your vision.