Visual Disturbance in My Eye
Subject Age: 34 Gender: Female Height: 148 cm Weight: 98 kg Ethnicity: White Symptom Duration: A few minutes Location: Germany Relevant Medical Background: Hypermobility; currently under evaluation for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome; also dealing with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH) and Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). Current Medications: Estrogen gel and contraceptive pills. After an unusual night’s sleep, I awakened to find myself inadvertently pressing my eye with my hand. For several minutes, I experienced sharp flashes of light similar to lightning every time I moved that eye, which felt slightly squished. Though the sensation has now vanished, I am deeply concerned that I may have inadvertently caused harm to my retina. I have a wedding to attend shortly, and I am about to embark on a vacation soon after. While I am aware that symptoms of retinal detachment can represent a serious medical issue, I am uncertain if my experience qualifies as an emergency since the flashes have ceased. I wish to avoid causing disruption at my future mother-in-law’s wedding, where I will be staying, but this situation has left me quite unsettled.
Answers (1)
7/5/2025, 2:40:31 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned after experiencing visual disturbances, especially given your medical history and upcoming events. Let’s break down the situation:
Main Points:
- Brief Visual Disturbance: You experienced flashes of light in one eye after pressing it, which has since resolved.
- Potential Concerns: This could be linked to retinal issues, but the cessation of symptoms is a positive sign.
- Emotional Impact: The anxiety about this situation is completely valid, especially with important events coming up.
Explanation:
Flashes of light, particularly after pressure on the eye, can be associated with several conditions, including retinal irritation or traction. Given your background in idiopathic intracranial hypertension, it's essential to monitor any visual changes carefully. Although retinal detachment is serious, it usually presents with persistent symptoms like new floaters, a sudden increase in flashes, or a shadow in your vision.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Symptoms: Since the flashes stopped, keep an eye on for any return of symptoms, including new floaters or changes to your vision.
- Rest Your Eyes: Avoid pressing on your eyes and consider giving them a break from screens and bright lights.
- Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration can help overall eye health, so drink plenty of water.
- Limit Eye Strain: If you're attending events or traveling, try to take regular breaks and manage lighting.
- Observe for Changes: Over the next few days, watch for any significant changes in your vision or any recurrence of symptoms.
If any new or concerning symptoms appear, such as persistent flashes, loss of vision, or new floaters, consider seeking evaluation. However, if everything remains stable, you should be able to enjoy the wedding and vacation without disruption. Remember, taking care of your mental well-being is just as important during this time.
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