Unexplained Light Stripes in Vision: What Could It Mean? - Ophthalmology

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Appearance of unexplained light streaks in the eyes?


I have myopia in both eyes of -7.00, astigmatism of -1.50, and floaters.
One day, after taking a shower, I rubbed my eyes and felt discomfort.
Shortly after, I noticed an unusual light in the upper left field of vision, which transformed from a small slit into a streak of light, obscuring some of my vision.
I tried covering each eye, and I could still see the light streak; even when I closed my eyes, I could see it glowing in the darkness.
After about thirty minutes, the light streak disappeared, followed by feelings of nausea, dizziness, and eye fatigue.
I thought it might be due to prolonged screen time and fatigue, so I decided to take a nap, hoping it would resolve.
The next day, I still felt a bit dizzy, though not as severely as the day before, and I didn't notice any specific issues with my vision.
I would like to consult a doctor to see if there are any warning signs.

Lie Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/24

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology


Hello, your symptoms may be indicative of a migraine.
According to the source http://www.clinico.com.tw/eye1/eye12/eye126/I126m.htm, migraines are the second most common cause of headaches, which occur due to the constriction of blood vessels in the head.
Migraines can have a familial tendency and can occur at any age, even in children.
The characteristic of a migraine is that the pain is not continuous; it is usually more severe on one side of the head and often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Migraines rarely present with symptoms such as red eyes, blurred vision, or photophobia, which distinguishes them from acute glaucoma.
The symptoms of migraines vary from person to person.
Some individuals experience intense and brief headaches that occur in succession; others may see pulsating, jagged lines before a migraine attack; and some may only have ocular symptoms without headache, or only headache without other symptoms.
It is advisable to consult a neurologist.
In Taiwan, the ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is essential to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility if necessary.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pi-Lin.

Reply Date: 2016/02/24

More Info


The experience of seeing unexplained light stripes in your vision can be concerning, especially given your existing conditions of myopia, flashes, and floaters. Based on your description, several potential explanations could account for these visual disturbances, and it is essential to consider both benign and more serious causes.

Firstly, the appearance of light stripes or flashes can often be associated with the phenomenon known as "visual aura," which is commonly linked to migraine headaches. Even if you do not have a history of migraines, it is possible for visual disturbances to occur independently. These auras can manifest as various visual phenomena, including zigzag patterns, light flashes, or even temporary loss of vision. The nausea and dizziness you experienced could also be indicative of a migraine episode.

Another possibility is related to your existing conditions. Given that you have myopia and have experienced flashes and floaters, it is crucial to consider the health of your retina. The sudden appearance of light stripes, especially after rubbing your eyes, could suggest that the vitreous gel in your eye is pulling on the retina. This can lead to a condition known as retinal detachment or retinal tears, which can present with symptoms such as flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain-like shadow over your vision. Although the light stripes disappeared after a short period, the combination of symptoms you described warrants a thorough examination by an eye care professional.

Additionally, the fact that you noticed these light stripes in a dark environment, and they persisted even with your eyes closed, raises the possibility of a phenomenon called "phosphene." Phosphenes are sensations of light that occur when pressure is applied to the eyes or when the retina is stimulated in a non-visual way. This could explain why you saw the light stripes even when your eyes were closed.

Your symptoms of dizziness and nausea could also be linked to eye strain, especially if you have been spending extended periods looking at screens. Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, can lead to discomfort, headaches, and visual disturbances. However, given the acute nature of your symptoms, it is essential not to dismiss them as merely fatigue.

In summary, while some of the symptoms you are experiencing could be attributed to benign causes such as eye strain or visual aura, the sudden onset of light stripes, especially in conjunction with nausea and dizziness, should not be taken lightly. It is advisable to seek an immediate evaluation from an eye care specialist. They can perform a comprehensive eye examination, including a retinal assessment, to rule out any serious conditions such as retinal tears or detachment. Early detection and intervention are crucial in preserving your vision and addressing any underlying issues.
In the meantime, consider reducing screen time and ensuring you take regular breaks to alleviate eye strain. Staying hydrated and managing stress can also help mitigate some of the symptoms you are experiencing. However, the priority should be to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure your eye health is thoroughly evaluated.

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