Flashing Lights in the Corner of My Eye: Causes and Concerns - Ophthalmology

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Flashing lights in the corner of your eye can be concerning, especially after undergoing laser eye surgery and having a history of myopia and floaters. The symptoms you describe—seeing light points moving from the lower right to the upper right corner of your vision—could be attributed to several potential causes, some of which may require medical attention.

1. Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): After laser surgery, changes in the vitreous gel that fills the eye can occur. PVD is a common condition where the vitreous gel pulls away from the retina. This can lead to flashes of light, particularly in the peripheral vision. The flashes are often described as brief bursts of light or "lightning streaks" and can be more noticeable in low-light conditions.

2. Retinal Issues: While you mentioned that you had a history of floaters, it's essential to be aware that new flashes of light can sometimes indicate more serious conditions, such as retinal tears or detachment. These conditions can occur when the retina is pulled or tugged, leading to visual disturbances. If you experience a sudden increase in flashes, new floaters, or a shadow in your vision, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

3. Migraine-Related Visual Disturbances: Even if you do not have a history of migraines, some individuals experience visual disturbances known as "aura" that can include flashing lights. These can occur without a headache and may be triggered by stress or eye strain, especially common in design work that requires prolonged screen time.

4. Eye Strain: Given your profession in design, prolonged periods of focusing on screens can lead to eye strain, which may cause temporary visual disturbances, including flashes. This is often accompanied by symptoms like dryness, fatigue, and discomfort.

5. Other Causes: Other potential causes could include issues related to the optic nerve or even neurological conditions. However, these are less common and would typically present with additional symptoms.


Recommendations:
- Seek an Eye Examination: Given the frequency and nature of your symptoms, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional. They can perform a comprehensive eye exam, including a dilated fundus examination, to assess the health of your retina and vitreous.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when the flashes occur, their duration, and any accompanying symptoms (like new floaters or changes in vision). This information can be helpful for your eye doctor.

- Reduce Eye Strain: Implement the 20-20-20 rule while working on screens: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. Ensure your workspace is well-lit to reduce glare and strain.

- Stay Hydrated and Use Artificial Tears: If you experience dryness, using lubricating eye drops can help alleviate discomfort.

In conclusion, while some causes of flashing lights in your vision may be benign, others could indicate a more serious issue, especially following your recent laser surgery. Prompt evaluation by an eye care professional is essential to rule out any serious conditions and to ensure your eye health is maintained.