the 'Rainy Vision' Symptom After Retinal Laser Surgery

It feels like it's going to rain?

Hello Doctor: I underwent retinal laser treatment for a retinal tear on October 20.
I had dilated retinal examinations on November 6, November 8, and November 9, and different doctors confirmed that my retina is currently fine.
However, after my examination on the evening of November 9, I started experiencing a sensation of seeing floaters (this symptom comes and goes).
I read online that seeing floaters can indicate retinal detachment.
Should I seek another examination as soon as possible, or can I wait until my follow-up appointment for the laser surgery on December 2? Also, if the retinal specialist's examination shows normal results, is it possible for a retinal detachment to occur suddenly within a few days?

Bu zhi shi zai kan zhen de xun wen zhe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/11

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology

Hello, a retinal examination for floaters can only confirm that there are no issues at that moment.
If there are any changes in symptoms, further examination is necessary.

Reply Date: 2015/11/11

More Info

The phenomenon you are experiencing, often referred to as "rainy vision," can be quite concerning, especially after undergoing retinal laser surgery. This symptom typically manifests as seeing streaks or spots that resemble rain or water droplets in your field of vision. While it can be alarming, it is essential to understand the potential causes and the appropriate steps to take.

Firstly, it's important to note that after retinal laser surgery, patients may experience various visual disturbances as part of the healing process. These can include floaters, flashes of light, or even the "rainy vision" effect you described. In many cases, these symptoms are benign and may resolve as the eye heals. However, they can also indicate more serious complications, such as retinal detachment.

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the underlying supportive tissue. Symptoms can include sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, or a shadow or curtain over part of your vision. The fact that multiple doctors have examined your retina and found no issues is reassuring, but it does not entirely rule out the possibility of a detachment occurring later.

Given that you have experienced this "rainy vision" shortly after your surgery, it is advisable to err on the side of caution. While it is possible for the retina to appear normal during an examination and then develop issues shortly thereafter, significant changes typically do not occur within a few days. However, if you notice any new symptoms, such as an increase in the intensity or frequency of the "rainy vision," or if you experience any sudden changes in your vision, you should seek immediate medical attention.

In terms of follow-up, while your next scheduled appointment is on December 2, if the symptoms persist or worsen, it would be prudent to contact your ophthalmologist sooner. They may recommend an additional examination to ensure that everything is healing properly and that no complications have arisen.

In conclusion, while "rainy vision" can be a common post-operative symptom, it is essential to monitor your condition closely. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Early detection and intervention are crucial in managing potential complications after retinal surgery.

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