myopic flashes

[michellenavarn]

hi i’ve been myopic all my life. I’m starting to worry about flashes. I’m pretty sure i’ve had them all my life but they have been more intense. I saw an ophthalmologist and I have vitreous syneresis and peripheral cystoid degeneration which is common and benign. should I be worried? I’m 25 and my contact prescription is -7.50. Please help. is this normal for myopics?

[Corriesboy]

Hi

Firstly I think you should go get it checked out again nothing wrong with a bit of reassurance.

I’m myopic -9.5 both eyes with myopic CNV in left which I get injections for . I started to get flashes about 18 months ago and panicked thought it was the start of a retinal detachment, so I took myself up to the hospital casualty department , they have an eye clinic. They checked out both my eyes and it turns out I have Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) more annoying than anything but it is worrying and I have been lots to my own optician just to get it double checked and give me reassurance. I’m 55 a lot older than you , PVD is more common for someone my age.

You have to keep a check on it, if you notice it increasing or intensity changing then I suggest you see the optician or go to local eye hospital right away as there are many other serous eye conditions. Better to be reassured it’s all ok.

Hope this helps and you get it sorted.

Take care 🙏

[michellenavarn in reply to Corriesboy]

Hi thank you for replying!

I went and saw my ophthalmologist two days ago again after seeing her a month ago. No PVD, tears, or detachments yet. It’s just been very worrisome. I haven’t met anyone yet with occasional flashes and they have been okay for the most part. It’s either they had PVD or retinal detachment. I have noticed a few floaters but they aren’t the biggest issue. My ophthalmologist said I have vitreous syneresis and that’s more common with older people. I’m not sure if that’s the reason why my flashes have increased or it’s part of that process. Thank you for your kind words. It’s made me feel a little better.

[Rosalyn-helpline Partner]

Dear michellenavarn,

As suggested, it is best to err on the side of caution and get any flashes checked out at the emergency eye clinic. At present, due to Covid-19, it is best to ring them in advance and explain.

Kind regards,

Macular Society Advice and Information Service

0300 3030 111

[e-mail]